HC Deb 26 October 1977 vol 936 cc867-8W
Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how much he estimates it would cost to clean and to renovate the exterior of Big Ben, of the stone railing pillars surrounding the east and northern sides of New Palace Yard, of the exterior of Westminster Hall, of the exterior of those parts of the Palace of Westminster which can be seen from Parliament Square, of the exterior of those parts of the Palace of Westminster overlooking the River Thames, and of the entirety of the exterior of the Palace of Westminster, respectively.

Mr. Marks:

The cost of cleaning and renovating stonework for the whole of the Palace of Westminster would he about £3.5 million over three years or £4 million over five years. The break- down of cost requested by my hon. and learned Friend could only be provided at disproportionate cost.

Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will give instructions for work to begin on the cleaning and restoration of the exterior of the Palace of Westminster and to be carried out by stages.

Mr. Marks:

No. However, this is something that my officials will be discussing with the Services Committee in the near future.

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