§ Mr. SpeakerI have a brief statement to make arising out of the tragedy which occurred last Friday and to which reference has been made at the beginning of questions.
Following the bomb explosion on Friday, I have approved the following recommendations submitted to me by the Joint Committee on Security.
First, Westminster Hall will be closed to the public and the line of route will be suspended. Secondly, all strangers, including guests and visitors not accompanied by a Member, must enter and leave by St. Stephen's entrance; drivers of all vehicles other than cars driven by Members and authorised staff and taxi cabs for Members will also be directed to St. Stephen's entrance.
These restrictions will remain in effect so long as it is judged to be necessary in the interests of security. I understand that the Metropolitan Police will shortly be issuing advice to Members on security precautions which they can take themselves. I know that Members will cooperate in this matter.
So far as the Car Park is concerned, I have authorised the police to check all cars.
Finally, the Metropolitan Police have submitted a detailed report on the explosion, the implications of which are being considered by the Joint Security Committee. For seasons of security, I am sure that the House would not wish me to go into any further details of other measures which have already been taken or may be taken in the future. If any hon. Members have any proposals on these matters they should address them to the Joint Committee. I hope that the House will consider that its interests are best served by letting the matter rest there without questions or points of order.