HC Deb 31 October 1988 vol 139 cc663-4
36. Mr. Butler

To ask the Lord President of the Council if he will take steps to initiate an inquiry into what extra facilities might be desirable in the Palace of Westminster.

Mr. Wakeham

I am pleased to be able to inform my hon. Friend that the Accommodation and Administration Sub-Committee of the Services Committee passed a resolution on 25 July this year to initiate an exercise, in consultation with the New Building Sub-Committee, to prepare a practical set of proposals to improve hon. Members' amenities and facilities. I am sure that, in the preparation of these proposals, right hon. and hon. Members' views will be taken into account.

Mr. Butler

I welcome my right hon. Friend's announcement, but will hon. Members be consulted individually by questionnaire on this matter?

Mr. Wakeham

That is a matter for the appropriate Committees to consider. I am sure that any views that hon. Members wish to put forward will be considered.

Mr. Dobson

Will the Leader of the House say when the Property Services Agency report on the replacement of the annunciator system will finally get off the Minister's desk so that hon. Members can see it? It is getting on for two years since it was asked to produce a report. If we are to have a modern electronic system, with possible access to Library information, and with information going to offices through the replacement for the annunciator system, it is about time some decisions were taken.

Mr. Wakeham

The hon. Gentleman has raised this matter with me before, and I shall be in touch with him as soon as I have any news.