Desmond Swayne – 2022 Parliamentary Question on the Running Costs of the Government Estate

The parliamentary question asked by Sir Desmond Swayne, the Conservative MP for New Forest West, in the House of Commons on 8 December 2022.

Sir Desmond Swayne (New Forest West) (Con)

What steps his Department is taking to reduce the running costs of the Government estate.

The Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office (Alex Burghart)

Since 2010 the size of the central general purpose estate has been reduced by 30%, which has cut annual running costs by £1.6 billion. The “Government Property Strategy 2022-2030”, published in August, commits us to making further estate operating cost savings of £500 million by 2025 by relocating London roles, co-locating in multi-agency hubs, and selling surplus property.

Sir Desmond Swayne

The German Government have limited temperatures in public buildings to 19°C. Double that and add 30, and it is a balmy 68° in English money. We could put on an extra layer and do a lot better, couldn’t we?

Alex Burghart

I feel that my right hon. Friend could survive in sub-19°C temperatures without an extra layer, but, as he will know, the Health and Safety Executive issues advice on temperatures in workplaces. Regulations suggest that the minimum temperature for indoor working should be at least 16°C, or 13° where rigorous physical effort is required. We have the flexibility to take that action, should we wish to do so.

Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)

Could use be made of empty Government properties? Given that bitterly cold weather is hitting the UK with a vengeance this week, have the Minister and the Cabinet Office considered making properties in city centres available to provide warm and dry places for those who are struggling with homelessness?

Alex Burghart

As ever, the hon. Gentleman has raised an important issue, and if he has any specific buildings in mind, I shall be happy to meet him to discuss it.