Business of the House Debate

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Department: Leader of the House

Business of the House

Pauline Latham Excerpts
Thursday 4th February 2016

(8 years, 10 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Grayling Portrait Chris Grayling
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There are a few people who believe that such a change is necessary, but of course it would be a matter for the relevant Committees and for the whole House to discuss. We have to make sure we have a family-friendly Palace of Westminster and House, but we must also be careful to maintain some of the traditions of the House as well.

Pauline Latham Portrait Pauline Latham (Mid Derbyshire) (Con)
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May we have a debate to celebrate the work done in this country by organisations such as the Arts Council and the Royal Ballet, which bring in so much tourism, and by the wonderful organisations in my constituency that add to the different tourism offer we have in the area? That has been recognised by the Chancellor in his autumn statement.

Lord Grayling Portrait Chris Grayling
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My hon. Friend makes an important point, and I am glad that the Chancellor did recognise that in the autumn statement. It is very important that we maintain the strong arts bodies in this country. They make a valuable contribution to our culture, as well as attracting business from overseas. She makes an important point, and may I take advantage of this opportunity to wish her a happy birthday, too?