HC Deb 14 March 1961 vol 636 cc1175-6
21. Mr. Thorpe

asked the Minister of Works whether the Library, Members' and Strangers' Dining Rooms, Tea Room and Chamber are air conditioned; and what is the average temperature and humidity at which it is sought to maintain them.

Lord John Hope

Of the accommodation mentioned, only the House of Commons Chamber is air conditioned, and this is maintained at an average temperature of 67º F. and 55 per cent. humidity. The, same temperature is maintained in the Library, Dining Rooms and Tea Room, but the humidity in these areas cannot be controlled.

Mr. Thorpe

Is the Minister aware that last night the temperature in the Members' Dining Room soared above 80° F.? How much longer are hon. Members to be cooped up for hours on end in this building in these stifling Turkish bath conditions with hon. Members precluded from removing the necessary amount of clothing to make such temperatures tolerable?

Lord John Hope

That is a wide question which seems to me to impinge upon the inter-communication of the ordinary channels.