HC Deb 01 March 1960 vol 618 cc1006-7
6. Mr. Hayman

asked the Minister of Works to what extent he undertakes structural inspections of the Palace of Westminster in relation to fire danger; and when such an inspection last took place.

Lord John Hope

My Department's Fire Inspectorate surveys the whole of the building annually. The last survey took place on 23rd, 24th and 25th February, 1959. The 1960 survey will be made shortly.

Mr. Hayman

May I ask the Minister whether he is aware that some parts of the Palace are death-traps for some of the people who have to work there? Will he tell us whether there are any fire escapes in the whole of the Palace or none? Further, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that some of the windows in the new House of Commons block cannot be opened, and as the report of his Fire Inspectorate appears to be most unsatisfactory, will he call in the London Fire Brigade to give an independent report and publish it?

Lord John Hope

No, Sir, I do not feel inclined to do that. I will look with great care into the specific observations made by the hon. Gentleman, which are important. I am not aware that there are these gaps in the programme. My officers look very carefully at the system the whole time. Had the hon. Gentleman put down a more specific Question I should have been able to answer him more satisfactorily, and I will try to do so if he will do that.

Mr. Hayman

Is the Minister aware that I tried to do so but found that it would encroach on the sphere of responsibility of the Lord Great Chamberlain?

Mr. Speaker

Mr. Hayman. Next Question.

7. Mr. Hayman

asked the Minister of Works how many fire extinguishers and fire hoses are provided in the Palace of Westminster.

Lord John Hope

Three hundred and sixty-five extinguishers and 202 hoses.

Mr. Hayman

Will the Minister say whether there are any printed instructions on their use which are available to hon. Members or others who may be in the vicinity of the fire appliances? Can he say whether people trained in their use are available at all working hours, because the fire hazards of this Palace appear to be considerable?

Lord John Hope

Yes, Sir, there are people trained in their use. I will let the hon. Gentleman know about the other points. In addition to the extinguishers and hoses, there are water buckets and sand buckets which I am glad to tell the House are officially known as "Buckets, water" and "Buckets, sand".

Mr. Peyton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that some of us think that a real, good, healthy fire would be a very desirable thing, as the outcome might well be some improvement on the wretched and miserable amenities we have?

Lord John Hope

I am not sure that my hon. Friend's relation between cause and effect is entirely sound, and obviously I cannot make any remarks which might appear to be encouraging arson in this House.