§ The Earl of Kimberleyasked Her Majesty's Government:
How many people are employed at the Palace of Westminster, and what are the total costs of administration; and what are the corresponding figures for the European Parliament.
§ The Lord Privy Seal (Lord Belstead)The total number of people employed at the Palace of Westminster is 1,598 and the staff costs for the financial year 1988–89 are £29,233,003 (subject to audit). At the European Parliament 3,224 people are employed and the appropriations in respect of staff for the financial year 1989 are 181,072,568 ECUs (approximately £121,596,928 on 21st July).
The figures include part-time staff. In respect of the Palace of Westminster they include staff whose costs are borne by other agencies. Staff and costs in respect of the European Parliament take into account the requirement for the Parliament to meet in three places; for interpretation; and for printing and publication in nine languages.