HC Deb 13 March 1951 vol 485 cc146-7W
121. Mr. Pitman

asked the Minister of Works how many electric heating units for room heating have been supplied for use in Government offices and other buildings; and what is their total consumption potential.

Mr. Stokes

This information is not readily available and it would require more work than could be justified to obtain it by local inquiries.

122. Mr. Pitman

asked the Minister of Works whether in view of the view expressed by the Government's scientific advisers that it is not desirable in the present circumstances that electricity should be used for room heating, he will state to what extent such heating is used in Government offices and other buildings for which he is responsible; and to what extent arrangements are being made to introduce up-to-date, efficient and fuel-saving heating arrangements in such buildings.

Mr. Stokes

It is the policy of my Department to avoid using electricity for room heating wherever possible. Generally, electric heating is supplied only in buildings where central heating is not installed or is inadequate and only where there are no fire-places or flues. More economical means of heating are installed when the expenditure can be justified having regard to the length of the Department's tenure of the premises.