§ 132. Mr. Hurdasked the Minister of Works what is the cost of the canary-coloured rep curtains and pelmets which, by an instruction given in 1949, are being fitted to the windows of Government offices in Soho Square and elsewhere; how often it will be necessary to remove these curtains for cleaning; and if he will stop this expenditure of public money on amenities which do not make for more efficient and economical working in Government offices.
§ Mr. EcclesThe cost of fitting sun blinds and sun curtains to the windows of Government offices has been approximately £150,000 since replacement was started in May, 1949. The frequency of 123W laundering needed will vary from place to place, but is expected to average once in two years. Sun blinds were normally provided before the war for windows exposed to the sun. For some time after the war blackout curtains served the purpose but as these fell into disrepair they had to be replaced, not as an amenity, but to safeguard the efficiency and health of the staff. The programme has nearly been completed.