§ Mr. Greville Jannerasked the Lord President of the Council (1) when was the last occasion when there was a fire drill for the Palace of Westminster;
(2) whether he will institute a system of regular fire drills for the Palace of Westminster.
§ Mr. Edward ShortFire drills are carried out at the Palace of Westminster during the Summer Recesses. There were three such exercises in 1974 on 5th, 9th and 19th September. In addition, the London Fire Brigade carried out six acquaintance exercises in the building and six similar exercises in the area of the underground car park. The Palace of Westminster fire staff also carry out fire drills with Custodian staff weekly.
Practice fire drills for staff of the House of Commons will be carried out during the Summer Recess following the recommendation of the Services Committee.