HC Deb 24 February 1947 vol 433 cc1682-3
42. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Minister of Works whether he will give an assurance that, in rebuilding the destroyed and damaged parts of the Palace of Westminster, arrangements will be made to instal the most up-to-date system of fluorescent lighting.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Key)

Experiments are being carried out to determine the most suitable type of artificial lighting for the purpose, and fluorescent lighting is being considered, together with other types.

Sir W. Smithers

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that the present system of lighting in this Chamber, for instance, when it is alight, is wasteful and harmful to the eyes; and will he, as soon as possible, introduce up-to-date and scientific methods of lighting, of which fluorescent is one, in all public buildings?

Mr. Key

I am thinking of setting up an advisory committee of Members with regard to the new parts of the House, and will ask them to consider the matter in that connection.

Mr. Nicholson

Is it not a fact that the lighting of the new Chamber was arranged by the Select Committee which arranged the new Chamber, and that full details will be found in their Report?

Mr. Key

I am not at all certain whether they gave consideration to fluorescent lighting or not, but I shall ask for the advice of hon. Members of this House in connection with it.

Mr. George Wallace

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the House is very interested in the desire of the hon. Member for Orpington (Sir W. Smithers) to get hon. Members suitably lit up?