§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Chairman of the Accommodation and Works Committee if he will make a statement on the powers of the London Fire Brigade to inspect the Palace of Westminster; when the last inspection was; and if he will place a copy of the report in the Library.
§ Mr. Ray PowellThe London Fire Brigade has no powers to inspect the Palace of Westminster, nor has it done so. It is, however, invited to the Palace to carry out periodic familiarisation visits and training. The latest of these visits took place on 19 January. Responsibility for fire safety lies with the Crown premises inspection group of the Home Office fire inspectorate, which maintains close contact with the fire safety manager of the Parliamentary Works Directorate.