HC Deb 11 July 1966 vol 731 cc145-6W
92. Earl of Dalkeith

asked the Minister of Public Buildings and Works what was the cost of installing the new lift near the Ways and Means Office, for use only by hon. Members of this House; how many days it has been in use; how many times it has broken down; and how many hon. Members are estimated to have been unable to leave it at various times.

Mr. Prentice

The cost was £30,000. The lift has been in use for 221 days. There have been 29 breakdowns, mostly minor ones. The contractors, who are under a 12 months' guarantee agreement, carried out modifications and refinements three weeks ago which have led to a considerable improvement. On three occasions some hon. Members—a total of 22—were unable to leave the lift.