§ 2. Sir W. Anstruther-Grayasked the Minister of Works how much fuel has been saved by restricting the number of taps in the Palace of Westminster from which hot water may be obtained; whether similar economy is practised in other buildings under his control; and the overall saving of fuel.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works (Mr. Harmar Nicholls)It is not possible to measure the saving of oil fuel resulting solely from economy in use of hot water in the Palace of Westminster and in other buildings under the control of my right hon. Friend. The consumption of oil in the Palace of Westminster during the twelve weeks to 4th February, 1957, shows a saving of 191 tons as compared with the same period last year. Similar economies regarding hot water for washing are made in all oil-heated office buildings under the Ministry's control and the total saving of oil fuel over the same twelve week period in all buildings is estimated to be at present equivalent to 11,000 tons a year.
§ Sir W. Anstruther-GrayWhilst it is always desirable to set a good example, is my hon. Friend satisfied that this example is awakening sufficient response to make it worth while?
§ Mr. NichollsThe actual saving is, as I said, 191 tons, and the estimate over the year is 11,000 tons. I should have thought that was very worth while.