§ 39. Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Lord President of the Council what proposals he has to extend public facilities in the Palace of Westminster.
§ The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. John MacGregor)The relevant Services sub-committees are currently considering measures to improve further access for disabled visitors and the feasibility of providing refreshments for all visitors in advance of whatever may be included in the design brief for phase 2 of the new parliamentary building.
§ Mr. BanksDoes the Lord President share my understanding that having a cream tea with a Member on the Terrace is one of the high spots of the London season? It is certainly one of the lesser injuries that we can inflict upon our constituents. Given the appalling weather at present and the tight-fistedness of many hon. Members, it 17 is clear that a cream tea is not one of the pleasures that many constituents can enjoy. Could not we have a boat moored off the Thames on which refreshments are provided? It would—[Interruption.] This is a serious point. Such a boat would enable members of the public to enjoy the views that we have. Refreshments could be offered not in phase 2 but in the Palace of Westminster itself, perhaps by using Westminster Hall. We are very ready to take hospitality in this place but reluctant to offer it.
§ Mr. MacGregorI do not often have cream teas and I rather welcome the rain because we are badly in need of it.
It is generally agreed that it is not possible to provide refreshments for visitors in the Palace itself. I doubt whether Westminster Hall would be an appropriate place for the provision of refreshments. The Catering sub-committee has agreed to commission a feasibility study to determine whether reasonable facilities that are conveniently close to the House can be provided for groups of Members' guests. I know of one location that is being included in the study, and I shall ask the sub-committee to consider the hon. Gentleman's suggestion.