HC Deb 14 May 1984 vol 60 cc13-4
31. Mr. Dormand

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement on the progress being made in providing additional office accommodation for hon. Members.

The Lord Privy Seal and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. John Biffen)

The New Building Sub-Committee of the Services Committee has, I understand, made good progress in its examination of how the new parliamentary building should be developed and its accommodation allocated. I understand that its proposals reflect the view, expressed by many hon. Members in the debate of 22 November, that staff should, as far as possible, move out of the Palace to enable an increased number of hon. Members to have rooms near the Chamber.

Mr. Dormand

When are hon. Members likely to occupy the offices? There are rumours that the work is already behind schedule. Will the right hon. Gentleman also confirm that there is to be no cut in the original financial allocation for the project?

Mr. Biffen

I understand that phase I of the Bridge street building should be available for occupation in early 1990. Although I can only take note of what the hon. Gentleman says about financial restraint in the project, I am certain that the Government will balance a proper sense of economy with the previous commitment.

Mr. Peter Bruinvels

I welcome the news about the new Bridge street building. Will my right hon. Friend note the growing number of American research assistants who appear to be occupying the desks and office space of Members of Parliament?

Mr. Biffen

I note what my hon. Friend has said. I only hope that completion of phase I of the Bridge street building will not, by virtue of making more accommodation available, compound the difficulties by raising expectations among research assistants.

Mr. Willie W. Hamilton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that although this place might be an attractive museum, it is a working slum? Will he treat the matter with a great deal more urgency than he seems to be demonstrating?

Mr. Biffen

I cannot in any sense guarantee to give it greater seriousness or urgency than I have shown in my reply.