HC Deb 05 July 1965 vol 715 cc1109-10
31. Mrs. McKay

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many persons are now employed by him within the precincts of the Palace of Westminster; and how many persons are employed in the care of their health and welfare.

Mr. C. Pannell

On 30th June, 1965, my Department employed 295 people within the precincts of the Palace of Westminster. It is not necessary for any officer at the Palace of Westminster to be specifically responsible for the health and welfare of these officers; all matters of this nature are dealt with by the welfare section at Lambeth Bridge House.

Mrs. McKay

I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. In his present review of the Palace of Westminster, will he please incorporate room for adequate medical facilities for the staff and for all who work in the precincts of the Palace, including Members of Parliament?

Mr. Pannell

It was following the Select Committee of which I was a Member that the present facilities were produced by Oliver Cromwell's Statue. If they are not adequate at present it is for the House to say so, through the Serjeant at Arms, and then, when we get that sort of request, we will try to meet the need. It is not specifically a matter for me.

Mr. Pavitt

Will my right hon. Friend look at this question again? Does he recall that in 1961 the then Prime Minis- ter, Mr. Macmillan, undertook to have an investigation into this matter, but that it never took place? Will he look at the whole question of an occupational health service in this very large factory?

Mr. Pannell

In view of what my hon. Friend has said, I shall certainly start some sort of consultation with the authorities of the House.