HC Deb 02 November 1966 vol 735 cc457-8
40. Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Lord President of the Council what proposals he has for improving the standard and variety of the food offered in Members' dining rooms and tea rooms, and in the cafeteria open to the public; and what proposals he has for the improvement of the environment and general upkeep of these parts of the House.

Mrs. Braddock

I have been asked to reply.

The Catering Sub-Committee is conducting a comprehensive review of the services, including the menus, offered by the Refreshment Department, and, in consultation with the Accommodation and Housekeeping Sub-Committee, will put forward proposals for improving the environment and upkeep of refreshment rooms.

Mrs. Short

May I tell my hon. Friend.—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."] May I tell my hon. Friend—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."]

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Lady knows now how to ask a supplementary question.

Mrs. Short

Is my hon. Friend aware that these proposals are long overdue? Is he further aware that many hon. Members are concerned about the continually deteriorating standards of catering in this House, that we are disgusted by the broken furniture, by the dirty carpets and the monotony of the menus offered in many parts of the House, including the public and Press facilities? May I ask her also——

Mr. Speaker

Order. That is long enough for one supplementary question.

Mrs. Braddock

The position is that a special report from the Select Committee on House of Commons Services commenting upon the accounts for 1965 will be published later this week. Perhaps there will be opportunity for a full discussion on these matters later.