Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Tom Pursglove and Tom Brake

Thursday 22nd October 2015 Commons Chamber

[Stephen Phillips (Sleaford and North Hykeham) (Con)]

7. When the Commission plans to bring forward proposals on the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster.

[Tom Brake (Carshalton and Wallington)]

On behalf of the Liberal Democrats, I would like to echo the tributes to Michael Meacher, who gave outstanding service to the House.

The House of Commons Commission and the House of Lords House Committee asked for the independent appraisal of options and costs for restoring and renewing the Palace of Westminster that was published on 18 June. The range of costs for each option is given and explained in the document. The two Houses have appointed a Joint Committee, which will report to both Houses in due course. In the meantime, essential and urgent work to maintain the Palace continues.

[Tom Pursglove]

Many people up and down the country recognise and appreciate the value of this place, in terms of both our national history and it being at the heart of our democracy and its tourism value. I have been asked locally whether there are any plans to establish a fund that members of the public can contribute to in order to support those restoration works. Does the right hon. Gentleman have any such plans?

[Tom Brake]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for that suggestion. I am happy to take it away and see whether there is any mileage in it.