HC Deb 14 November 1977 vol 939 cc76-7W
Mr. Adley

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many lifts there are in the Palace of Westminster; how many were in full working order on 9th November 1977; when each lift was last serviced; how much has been spent on maintenance, repairs and servicing on the lifts in the Palace of Westminster in the last 12 months; and what steps he has taken to restore the lifts to working order.

Mr. Marks

There are 29 passenger lifts, of which 12 were in full working order on 9th November. These lifts are serviced at least monthly. It is estimated that the cost of maintenance, repairs and servicing in the last 12 months was £30,000. Discussions on the industrial action affecting the lift service are continuing.

Mr. Rees-Davies

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many staff from his Department are employed upon lift maintenance in the Palace of Westminster at present; how many were employed in 1973 and in 1970; and whether he will lay a copy of the contract of employment in the Library.

Mr. Marks

Four men are employed. The same number were employed in 1973 and in 1970. There is no formal contract of employment. However, I have given instructions that the following documents, which are issued to staff on appointment, should be laid in the Library: (i) a copy of the Conditions of Service; (ii) the accompanying handbook.