§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the right hon. Member for Berwick upon Tweed, as representing the House of Commons Commission, what was the cost of the children's books in the Family Room of the House; who chose them; and under what budget their purchase was made.
§ Mr. Beith[holding answer 24 April 1995]: In July 1989, the Accommodation and Administration Sub-Committee of the Services Committee gave approval to the idea that a small set of bookcases be provided to house children's books in the Members' Families' Room. The Services Committee and the Speaker endorsed this recommendation of the Sub-Committee. The then Librarian, Dr. Menhennet, agreed to find up to £150 from the Library's budget to purchase a modest number of suitable books which would be stamped as Library property. The assistant education officer was asked to advise on the selection of books. Early in 1994, an additional £30 was spent following a suggestion from a Member.