HC Deb 19 May 1993 vol 225 c171W
Ms Walley

To ask the Chairman of the Administration Committee what(a) building, (b) fire and (c) health and safety regulations apply to the Palace of Westminster; which regulations in each category would apply to the Palace of Westminster if not for Crown immunity; and which officials are responsible for enforcement of each category of regulation.

Mr. Beith

I have been asked to reply.

It is the policy of the Commission, notwithstanding immunities and exemptions provided for in legislation, to apply the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974 and all other relevant statutory provisions throughout the parliamentary estate, whether part of the Palace of Westminster or not. With regard to:

  1. (a) Building Regulations. Administrative procedures are in place in the parliamentary works directorate to ensure that all the technical requirements of the regulations are met.
  2. (b) Fire Regulations. The Home Office fire services' inspectorate is responsible in consultation with the parliamentary works directorate for ensuring the appropriate standards in the Fire Precautions Act 1971 are met.
  3. (c) Health and Safety Regulations. The statement of policy and organisation is set out in appendix C of the "House of Commons Staff Handbook". I have asked that a copy of the appendix referred to above to be sent to the hon. Lady.

Heads of House departments are responsible for the operation of these policies in their areas of responsibility.

Ms Walley

To ask the Chairman of the Administration Committee if he will estimate in relation to the Palace of Westminster how many (i) employees and (ii) members of the public are in the Palace of Westminster on weekdays when the House is sitting.

Mr. Michael J. Martin

I shall write to my hon. Friend.