HC Deb 23 January 1967 vol 739 c949
12. Mr. Allason

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what is his policy with regard to the windows of new Government offices where these will overlook residential property.

The Minister of Public Building and Works (Mr. R. E. Prentice)

The policy is to comply with the requirements of planning controls and building regulations. Where offices overlooking residential accommodation unavoidably cause embarrassment, some use of obscured glass can be considered so long as this is not detrimental to working conditions.

Mr. Allason

Has the Minister noticed the latest research into this subject, which shows that it is not very necessary for people to be able to look out of a window of an office except simply to look up to the sky? Will he, therefore, extend his use of obscure glass to ensure that there is decent privacy for residential property alongside new Government offices?

Mr. Prentice

The privacy of people living alongside is exactly the point which we take into account.