An independent inquiry will look at concerns of a cancer cluster at Victoria’s Parliament House.

The Victorian Cancer Council and academic experts will probe the 160-year-old parliamentary building, conducting an environmental survey of the buildings and temporary structures on the grounds.

Reports say six MPs have been diagnosed with various forms of cancer.

Two Labor MPs and breast cancer survivors were instrumental in demanding the newly-announced inquiry.

News Corp media outlets say the MPs work in an ageing portable asbestos building known as the ‘chook house’.

Victorian Premier Denis Napthine says the reports will be rigorously investigated.

“When issues are raised with regard to occupational health and safety and safety of the Parliament, it's the responsibility of the Speaker and the President to deal with that,” Dr Napthine said.

“They will be seeking and have sought expert advice and that expert advice will be provided to them.”

A panel has been set up in collaboration with the Victorian Cancer Council; it will be chaired by Monash University researcher Professor John McNeil.

“The panel will determine whether there is an excess risk of breast cancer or other cancers among parliamentarians and employees of Parliament, based on the background incidence of cancer among the Victorian population,” Speaker Christine Fyffe said a statement.

“[The panel will] undertake an environmental survey of the site for carcinogenic exposures.”

Former Speaker Ken Smith has told News Corp publication The Australian that he is not convinced the reports of ill-health are linked to the parliamentary precinct, but says there are plans to demolish the portable structure and bring nearly thirty MPs working there into the main building.

Among the long list of issues with the 19th century building are aging sewerage pipes, rats, and lifts which are too small to transfer the seriously ill on stretchers.