HC Deb 04 March 1952 vol 497 cc203-4
44. Miss Elaine Burton

asked the Minister of Works if he will make arrangements for the temperature in the Chamber to be at a lower level.

Mr. Eccles

It I can be assured that it is the wish of the majority of hon. Members, I will arrange for the temperature to be lowered.

Hon. Members

No.

Miss Burton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that by a happy coincidence there is a little air in this Chamber today, which is quite different from many weeks past? May I also point out that while I believe there is quite a draught on the exalted Front Benches, it is really stuffy on the back benches? Would the right hon. Gentleman do something about it?

Mr. Ralph Assheton

Would my right hon. Friend bear in mind that whilst is frequently very warm in this Chamber it is frequently very cold in other parts of the Palace of Westminster, such as the Committee Rooms, and that it would be desirable to keep the temperature of the whole building at the same level if possible?

Mr. Eccles

The answer is that the radiators are turned down at night in the Committee Rooms. If my right hon. Friend has them turned up in the morning, I think he will find they get hot very quickly.

Mr. I. Mikardo

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why the temperature in another place is permanently maintained at three degrees higher than in this Chamber? Will he ensure the utmost economy in the use of fuel for an establishment where more than 90 per cent. of the members are permanent absentees?

Mr. Eccles

The answer is that I have to suit the convenience of those whom I serve.