HC Deb 25 April 1966 vol 727 cc335-6
13. Mr. Iremonger

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what steps he is taking to make more space available for the parking of the cars of hon. Members in the precincts of the Palace of Westminster; and why an obstruction has been placed so as to prevent cars being parked immediately inside the southern carriage gate to New Palace Yard.

Mr. Prentice

I am afraid that there is no scope for providing additional car parking space within the precincts of the Palace of Westminster. I assume the hon. Member is referring, in the latter part of his Question, to the old mounting block. It was recently moved to its present place as being less obstructive than its previous position in the Yard.

Mr. Iremonger

Might I suggest that a very good start in providing more space would be to see that the inner courtyards are not continually blocked by Ministers' cars with chauffeurs waiting an inordinately long time for their Ministers?

Mr. Prentice

I have no evidence that Ministers' cars wait for longer periods than do other Members' cars.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Would the Minister ask his officials to see whether there are not a great many cars parked in New Palace Yard that do not belong to hon. Members? If there are, would he consider whether they should not be turned out?

Mr. Prentice

I will look into any complaint there may be made on that aspect. Perhaps the hon. Member would like to write to me with any detailed suggestions he may have on this point.