§ Paul FlynnTo ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission, what arrangements are being made for the use of euro notes and coins in restaurants and souvenir shops in the House. [24387]
§ Mr. Kirk woodMany UK businesses, particularly those serving tourists from overseas, already accept payment in foreign currencies, including the euro. However, the House's restaurants and souvenir shops provide services primarily to Members and staff who work here, and to constituents visiting the House. The Refreshment Department is therefore not planning to accept payment for its catering or retail services in euros or any other foreign currency.
However, the hon. Member will have noted from the Administration Committee's First Report on the 2001 trial opening of the Summer Line of Route (HC 433 of Session 2001–02) that at least 50 per cent, of the 86,000 visits last year came from overseas. If the Committee's recommendation that the summer opening of the Line of Route become a permanent feature is accepted, the potential benefits, costs and risks of accepting payment for tickets, souvenirs and refreshments in foreign currencies, including the euro, will be considered for this project.