§ Mr. Cryerasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what annual subsidy is paid to finance (a) the Press catering facilities and (b) the Press bars at the Palace of Westminster; and whether those provisions are under review.
§ Mr. Charles IrvingI have been asked to reply.
Subject to final audit the loss on the Commons press catering facilities, including bars, was £46,800, of which the Press Gallery employers paid £31,386. Premises, lighting, heating, gas and printing are provided free.
The responsibility for the Refreshment Department, including the Press Gallery catering, is at present under review.