§ 38. Mr. Norman Baker (Lewes)What representations she has received regarding car parking charges for hon. Members. [66799]
§ The Parliamentary Secretary, Privy Council Office (Mr. Paddy Tipping)No formal representations have been made.
§ Mr. BakerDoes the Minister agree that it is rather odd that parking across the road at Abingdon green costs some £20 for 12 hours whereas it is free for Members of Parliament? Does he support proposals in the transport White Paper for the introduction of workplace charging? Does he agree that they should apply to the House of Commons, notwithstanding opposition from Labour Members? Does he further agree that hon. Members should not be allowed to claim the charges back under the office costs allowance?
§ Mr. TippingThe hon. Gentleman should remember that the Greater London Authority Bill was introduced by the Labour party. It gives the mayor of London or the boroughs the opportunity to charge at a future date—the year 2000? The House will look carefully at the response from the new mayor—the new Labour mayor—and we shall respond accordingly once that advice has been given.