§ 33. Mr. Ian BruceTo ask the right hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed, as representing the House of Commons Commission, what plans he has to improve facilities in the House to assist hon. Members in the discharge of their duties.
§ Mr. BeithResponsibility for proposing new facilities for hon. Members rests with the domestic Committees, 577 which are expected to meet shortly. The hon. Gentleman will be aware of the developing plans for the construction of new office accommodation on the phase 2 site and the introduction of a new computer network for Members and their staff. I shall be happy to pass on to the relevant Committees any other suggestions that the hon. Gentleman may have.
§ Mr. BruceHas the right hon. Gentleman thought about the possibility of giving hon. Members an option of staff based in the House or more money to provide facilities outside, perhaps in their constituencies? That would take the pressure off existing facilities and allow a much quicker raising of standards for Members and secretaries working together in the House.
§ Mr. BeithThose matters do not fall within the responsibility of the Commission. The House may hear more about the subject shortly, but not from the Commission.