§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Public Building and Works whether he will make a statement on the costs of redecorating the office of the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity, and give a detailed reply to the various points set out in a communication sent to him by the hon. Member for West Ham, North.
§ Mr. John SilkinThe existing furniture and furnishings in the room of the First Secretary and Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity have been changed at a cost of about £1,000, including £140 for a carpet and underlay. The bulk of this expenditure is offset by the availability of the existing furniture for use elsewhere. At the same time, the improvements to lighting being carried out in the building generally have been extended to this room. New acoustic tiles have been fitted where necessary to 49W replace those damaged during the course of rewiring. The opportunity was taken also to redecorate the room at a cost of £250. Last year, improvements were made to the waiting room, including the provision of mechnical ventilation at a cost of about £750.