HC Deb 12 May 1948 vol 450 cc2121-3
61. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Supply why he has ordered the removal of dining room furniture and all easy chairs from his Department's hostel at Brinsford Lodge, Featherstone, in the County of Stafford; why he proposes to have all the beds removed and replaced with wooden bunks; what consultation representatives of his Department had with the residents before these decisions were taken; and whether he will reconsider them.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply (Mr. Jack Jones)

The dining room furniture was not suitable for a hostel of this type and has therefore been replaced by the type used at similar hostels. We do not intend to make any other changes, but the hostel is shortly to be transferred to the Ministry of Labour and National Service, who will be responsible for deciding whether further changes should be made in furnishing.

Mr. Swingler

Is my hon. Friend aware that this furniture has been in this hostel for some years and that the residents have enjoyed the present standard of comfort by paying certain charges for it. Why cannot this furniture be handed over to the Ministry of Labour who are taking over the hostel?

Mr. Jones

The intention is to replace this furniture with furniture similar to that used in other hostels and we are getting in place thereof furniture which lends itself to comfort and hygiene—60 fireside chairs, 20 armchairs, 12 settees, etc. It is only the dining room furniture, which was not considered suitable, that has been removed.

Mr. Frank Byers

Is it not rather stupid to carry standardisation to this length?

Mr. Jones

It may appear to be stupid, but in the interests of hygiene and good service, particularly in the dining room, it is necessary to have standardisation.

Mr. Swingler

Would not my hon. Friend agree that when changes are to be made it would be better to consult the residents before, rather than after, taking the decision?

Mr. Jones

My hon. Friend can rest assured that consultations did take place. There is appropriate machinery where these domestic matters are discussed, and agreement was arrived at. If he wants further information as to the nature of the discussion, I shall be pleased to furnish it.

Lieut.-Commander Gurney Braithwaite

What is unhygienic about dining room furniture?

Mr. Jones

This furniture was old and decrepit and not suitable to remain in its present position.