§ Mr. Tony LloydTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his proposals for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office building, Whitehall. [8189]
§ Mr. HanleyThe Foreign and Commonwealth Office building—Old Public Offices, Whitehall—is being refurbished for the first time since construction was completed in 1875 to provide modern office accommodation for the long term needs of this Department. On completion in January 1997 it will provide 25 per cent. more space allowing leased buildings to be given up, thus reducing running costs and improving operational efficiency.