§ Mr. Llew SmithTo ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee how many meals have been sold each day since the opening of Bellamy's Club dining room at 1 Parliament street; how the takings differ from those of the former coffee lounge; and what representations he has received from staff now excluded from the two rooms.
§ Mr. Colin ShepherdThe conversion of the Clubroom, on a trial basis, was undertaken in response to representations from Members. Numerous representations have been received from staff now excluded from the two rooms, but it is as yet too early to form an opinion regarding the long-term viability of the new Clubroom. I understand that the Director of Catering Services intends to review the operation of the Clubroom after Christmas. The Catering Committee will wish to be informed of the results of that review and will then also consider the representations which it has received.
§ Mr. CummingsTo ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee how much the recent adaptions to the coffee bar and lounge in the Parliament street buildings has cost; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Colin ShepherdI understand from the Director of Catering Services that the new servery counters purchased for Bellamy's Clubroom cost £25,849, paid from funds available in the Refreshment Department trading account. No costs have been incurred by the House of Commons works vote or administration vote. The servery counters have been specifically designed for flexibility of use and can, if necessary, be used for other purposes in the Refreshment Department.