Question

To ask the hon. Member for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross representing the House of Commons Commission, when and by whom a decision will be made on whether to vacate the Palace of Westminster to allow complete restoration and refurbishment to commence.

Given the interest of the House of Lords in this matter the Commission has welcomed the proposal from the Clerks of both Houses that we should establish a Joint Committee following the general election. This would enable both Houses to make an informed decision on the basis of a report from that Joint Committee. As far as this House is concerned the Commission would expect a decision of this significance to be taken on the floor of the House following full consultation.