HC Deb 29 July 1974 vol 878 cc25-6
49. Mr. Skinner

asked the Chairman of the Select Committee on House of Commons (Services) whether he is satisfied with the arrangements for constituents visiting the House of Commons.

The Chairman of the Select Committee on House of Commons (Services) (Mr. Arthur Bottomley)

Yes, in general; but the Committee will keep the matter under review.

Mr. Skinner

When my right hon. Friend considers this matter, will he take into account that the system of permits which operates in the months of June and July for constituents of Members of Parliament wanting to visit the Houses of Parliament is being much abused by the booking up, during the course of those months, of permits by travel agencies through Members of Parliament on the Opposition benches? Further, will he take into account that the London Travel Association—[Hon. MEMBERS: "Name them"] The Serjeant at Arms has the names but he refuses to reveal them. Will my right hon. Friend take into account that the London Travel Association has its own courier who uses this method—it has been adopted in recent months—to book up all the available places, thereby preventing hon. Members from taking their constituents round the line of route?

Mr. Bottomley

Every party has to be sponsored by a Member, and a Member must accept all that goes with that. A Member must ensure that those who go round are constituents or people who have a right to do so as a result of being sponsored by their Member.

Mr. Cormack

Has the right hon. Gentleman any evidence to suggest that what his hon. Friend the Member for Bolsover (Mr. Skinner) says is correct? If he has not, will he arrange for the matter to be clarified?

Mr. Bottomley

Yes.