Lifts, House of Commons (Fire Hazards)

HC Deb 12 April 1960 vol 621 c1060

13. Mr. Hayman

asked the Minister of Works what provision is made to deal with fire hazards in the lifts of the House of Commons.

Lord John Hope

In general the lifts and the lift shafts are constructed of fire-resisting or non-combustible material and I am advised that the fire hazards are negligible.

Mr. Hayman

Does that apply to the older lifts as well as the newer lifts? Will the right hon. Gentleman at the same time take into account that smoking in the lifts, although it may not be a fire hazard, makes it very uncomfortable for some hon. Members who have respiratory complaints?

Lord John Hope

I am sure the House will have listened to the last point made by the hon. Member, which is perhaps not quite one for me. With regard to the condition of some of the older lifts, it is true that one or two of them contain some timber, but even these have a two-hour fire resistance. It would certainly, I think, be desirable to get them all up to the highest standard.