§ Mr. Molsonasked the Minister of Works now much coal and coke is consumed annually in heating the Palace of Westminster; how many separate open fire-grates are available for use; and whether he intends, by an extension of central heating or otherwise, to make any reduction in this consumption of fuel.
§ Mr. KeyIn the year ending 31st March, 1947, 2,693 tons of steam coal were used in the Palace of Westminster to provide steam and hot water for central heating, domestic hot water, pumps and cooking apparatus. Separate figures for central heating are not obtainable, and no coke was used. There are 284 fireplaces, of which 127 were used, consuming 187 tons of domestic coal. When the House of Commons is rebuilt, a number of fireplaces will be replaced by central heating and new and more efficient oil-fired boilers will be installed.