HC Deb 21 January 1991 vol 184 cc47-8W
Mr. Leighton

To ask the Lord President of the Council what plans there are for House of Commons Committee Rooms to be fitted with the audio loop.

Mr. MacGregor

With the exception of three rooms, where the installation of an electronic loop to enhance audibility for the hard of hearing was not considered practical, all other rooms on the Committee Corridor are equipped with that facility. So too is the Great Committee Room, Westminster Hall.

Reception of proceedings by means of these loops requires the attendance of an operator and so is not available for those Select Committees, the proceedings of which are not recorded by sound or for television broadcast, nor for private meetings.

European Parliament. Proposals will also be presented for the introduction of free postage and telephone calls with EC institutions.