HC Deb 29 June 1966 vol 730 cc1793-4
44. Mr. Gibson-Watt

asked the Lord President of the Council what is the estimated number of members of the public who make morning visits to the Palace of Westminster during the year.

Mr. Bowden

For the year ending 31st December, 1965, 75,490 visitors went round the line of route for parties organised by Members on the mornings of sitting days, Mondays to Thursdays, and between the rising of the House and 6 p.m. on Fridays.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Would the right hon. Gentleman bring these figures to the notice of the Select Committee which, amongst other things, is considering morning sittings and point out to the Committee that more than 75,000 people would lose this valuable privilege if Members were to insist on morning sittings? [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] I believe that members of the public do consider that it is a privilege to visit the Palace of Westminster. Would the Lord President point this out to the Select Committee?

Mr. Bowden

I am sure that the Select Committee on Procedure will note this point, but I think that the hon. Gentleman would agree with me that Parliament itself must take precedence over visitors.

Mr. Bagier

Would my right hon. Friend consider just how many more people would be able to take advantage of going round the House if the House were to rise at 6 p.m.?