§ Mr. Norman Lamontasked the Lord President of the Council when he will be making a statement about converting No. 1 Bridge Street and the Norman Shaw Building to Members' offices.
§ Mr. Edward ShortAs I informed the House on 16th July—[Vol. 895, c. 1518.]—the Government will submit its proposals to the Services Committee regarding further accommodation for hon. Members as soon as possible. The Norman Shaw (South) Building and No. 1 Bridge Street are two of the buildings to be considered.
§ Mr. Norman Lamontasked the Lord President of the Council whether, when he is examining the possibilities of converting No. 1 Bridge Street and the Norman Shaw Building for Members' accommodation, he will also study the possibility of installing, when public expenditure permits, a travelator or escalator, possibly of the type in the United States Senate, to provide Members with speedy and easy access between the Chamber and their offices.
§ Mr. Edward ShortI shall bring the hon. Member's suggestion to the attention of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment. In considering such matters, however, it will be necessary to have regard to the overriding need to limit expenditure at the present time.
§ Mr. Norman Lamontasked the Lord President of the Council whether it is the Government's intention ultimately to provide office accommodation for each Member plus accessible and nearby accommodation for a secretary.
§ Mr. Edward ShortYes, as the financial situation permits.