Question

To ask the Parliamentary Works Sponsor Body what discussions they have had about (1) the combining, and (2) the rationalising, of facilities as part of the Palace of Westminster Restoration and Renewal Programme, including of (a) libraries, (b) refreshment facilities, (c) family rooms, and (d) car parking, (i) during, and (ii) after, any such restoration work.

The strategic review of the Restoration and Renewal Pogramme, which is currently being conducted by the Sponsor Body and Delivery Authority, has considered the possibility of the two Houses sharing some facillities during any period of decant, including catering and library functions. However, the desirability of doing so would be subject to the agreement of both Houses, if recommended as part of the decant strategy proposed by the strategic review. The strategic review's draft recommendations will be considered by the Sponsor Body Board in November. The report will then be discussed with both Houses before it is published.

The possibility of combining or rationalising facilities after the Palace has been restored has not been considered by the Sponsor Body and would be a matter for both Houses to determine rather than the Programme.