HC Deb 02 December 1974 vol 882 cc1109-10
38. Mr. Cryer

asked the Lord President of the Council when he anticipates the completion of the fire alarm system in the Palace of Westminster.

The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Edward Short)

I understand that the installation of the fire alarm system will be completed and tested by 16th December 1974.

Mr. Cryer

Will my right hon. Friend consider introducing legislation to bring this building under the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act? Does he not think that taking this amount of time to install a fire alarm system is setting a bad example to industry and commerce? Does he not further consider that the size and complexity of the Palace of Westminster means that fire dangers are great and that much urgency should be attached to the installation of this fire alarm system?

Mr. Short

My hon. Friend asked me a question on this subject on 1st July, when I gave a completion date of October. The delay has arisen because during installa- tion it was decided to modify the system so that it could broadcast messages in case of emergencies other than fire. When completed it will be able to broadcast messages and also the siren. The Palace of Westminster is certified by the Factory Inspectorate.

Mr. Lane

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us a bit more about these other messages? Will he explain whether the excellent banshee siren system which has been tested recently will be purely a fire alarm or will have a wider significance? If so, what will that be?

Mr. Short

It is obviously primarily a fire alarm. I ask the hon. Gentleman to await 16th December to hear the correct sound. The speakers will enable other messages to be broadcast in case of emergency.