HC Deb 23 November 1987 vol 123 cc53-4W
Mr. Wray

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, in the light of the mouse and rat infestation in St. Stephen's House, what poisons and other methods of pest deterrent and disposal are being used in that building; whether they constitute any danger to the hon. Members and staff working there; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Tony Lloyd

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the amount of investment by(a) the private sector and (b) the public sector in each urban development corporation by years from 1981.

Mr. Trippier

The information is as follows:

Mr. Chope

I am not aware of any particular infestation in St. Stephen's House. Pest control on the parliamentary estate generally is carried out under contract by Rentokil. Difenacuum, in 0.005 per cent, concentration poured on granules, is used; this is not harmful to humans.

Mr. Wray

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if, when emergency heating works are next carried out in St. Stephen's House or elsewhere in the Palace of Westminster, he will ensure that emergency hot water supplies are provided in the lavatories; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Chope

Modifications are being made to ensure that an alternative gas supply will be available to the whole of St. Stephen's House in the event of a future failure in the main supply. The parliamentary works office will do all it can to provide emergency hot water in the event of a heating failure elsewhere on the parliamentary estate.