Parliamentary Search

Early day motion tabled by primary sponsor Austin Mitchell (Labour), on Tuesday, 21 July 1998, in the House of Commons. It is signed by 58 members in total.

IMPROVED PUBLIC ACCESS TO PARLIAMENT

That this House, impressed with the success of the Gladstone Anniversary Exhibition in Westminster Hall, urges that the precedent be built on to provide, in the Hall, a welcoming visitor friendly, set of facilities for the use of constituents, including disabled persons, school parties, lobbying groups and all who come to see the splendours of the Palace of Westminster or to see their honourable Member by providing refreshments and light snacks, tables, seating, video displays, souvenir, memorabilia and book stalls, exhibition space and any other facilities which will make Parliament more accessible and provide an interesting and friendly environment for the thousands of people who pass through the Palace every year.

Amendments

The Early day motion has received 3 amendments.

1580A1
at end add 'and would be delighted if all those who must currently queue in the open air outside the Palace, whilst waiting for a place in the public gallery, could instead wait in Westminster Hall, and perhaps witness the proceedings in the House via a large screen video link.'.
1580A2
leave out from 'on' to end and add 'and welcomes therefore the proposals for a Westminster Hall Visitor Centre, which have been approved by the House, and which will provide for the constituents of honourable Members, and other visitors to the house, light refreshments, toilets and the opportunity to purchase souvenirs, whilst also providing better access for disabled persons to the Interview Rooms and the Jubilee and Grand Committee Rooms.'.
1580A3
at end add 'but recognises that this magnificent hall would be too cold for such use in mid-winter; and therefore suggests that heating be provided or that these much needed facilities might be transferred to the Royal Gallery during cold spells.'.

Secondary information

Type
Early day motion
Reference
1580 
1580A1 
1580A2 
1580A3 
Session
1997-98
Subjects
Access Buildings Parliament
Link
View this Early day motion on www.parliament.uk