Parliamentary Works Directorate

HC Deb 28 March 2001 vol 365 cc622-3W

Sir Sydney Chapman

To ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire (Mr. Kirkwood), representing the House of Commons Commission, if he will make a statement on the changes in the structure and practices of the Parliamentary Works Directorate. [155229]

Mr. Kirkwood

I understand that, in accordance with the Braithwaite Review of the Serjeant at Arms' Department, the Parliamentary Works Directorate is currently being divided. By 1 April 2001, the Works organisation, which serves both Houses of Parliament, will consist of an Estates Director concerned with strategy, long-term planning, property management and heritage and curatorial matters, while a Directorate of Works Services will be responsible for the delivery of in-year projects, the placing of contracts, maintenance and the management of capital projects.

Further information on these arrangements will be available to hon. Members in the future edition of the Members' Handbook. The Works Helpdesk will remain available for contact by hon. Members on extension 4747.