§ 7. Mr. D. Griffithsasked the Minister of Works when he will improve the standard of lighting for engineers and workmen who have to work underground in the Palace of Westminster.
§ Lord John HopeI have no reason to believe that the standard of lighting is inadequate. I am willing to look into any specific complaint if the hon. Member will let me have details.
§ Mr. GriffithsI am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, but may I ask whether he is aware that the lighting system is just about as ancient as the Palace of Westminster? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I saw these engineers at work? Cannot he suggest to those responsible that headlamps should be provided so that these men may have their hands free when they are underground? Instead of having to carry heavy, old-fashioned, antiquated lamps, which give a poor light, could not these men carry lights on their heads, so that their hands may be free?
§ Lord John HopeI am grateful to the hon. Member for his suggestion; but I must tell him that there has been no complaint about inadequate lighting, through Whitley Council channels or by individual workers.
§ Mr. GriffithsThere may not have been any complaints, but is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that anyone who has had experience of working underground would agree that the present system of lighting is abominable and shocking?