HC Deb 19 December 1994 vol 251 cc1393-4
40. Mr. Harry Greenway

To ask the Chairman of the Finance and Services Committee what plans he has for further Christmas decorations in the Palace of Westminster; at what cost; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Channon

I am sorry to tell my hon. Friend that there are no plans to put up further Christmas decorations in the Palace of Westminster.

Mr. Greenway

I share the pleasure of the hon. Member for Newham, North-West (Mr. Banks) at the Christmas trees that you, Madam Speaker, arranged for New Palace Yard and Westminster Hall. I respectfully remind the hon. Gentleman that at the top of a Christmas tree there should be a star—

Mr. Tony Banks

A red star!

Mr. Greenway

The Bethlehem star should be at the top of a Christmas tree, rather than a doll.

Perhaps funds could run to providing the hon. Member for Newham, North-West with a bow tie for Christmas, with flashing coloured lights on it, as that would be a permanent pleasure to him and to visitors to the House.

Mr. Channon

I am not sure that I can say anything further.