HC Deb 16 January 1997 vol 288 c309W
Mr. Allen

To ask the Chairman of the Administration Committee what provision the House currently makes for the child care needs of hon. Members. [11352]

Mr. Michael J. Martin

The Members' Families Room, off the Lower Waiting Hall, is available for use by hon. Members and their spouses on sitting days from 10 am until the Rising of the House, and on non-sitting days from 10 am until 6 pm. A colour television set is available. If space permits, it may also be used by the children, parents, brothers and sisters of hon. Members, but not by other guests.

The Library maintains a small collection of books in the room for the use of hon. Members' children, and welcomes any suggestions about this collection from hon. Members.

There is also a small changing room, with washing facilities, off the Families Room. A nappy changing table is available in the disabled persons' lavatory off the Lower Waiting Hall.

Children of any age, accompanied by an adult, are admitted to the Galleries, provided they do not interrupt the business of the House.