Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 21 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 24 November 2000. It was answered by Sydney Chapman (Conservative) on Friday, 24 November 2000 on behalf of the Accommodation and Works Committee.

Accommodation and Works Select Committee

Question: To ask the Chairman of the Accommodation and Works Committee, if he will assess the benefits of providing a retail outlet selling basic provisions in the atrium of Portcullis House.

Answer: Mr. Baker: To ask the Chairman of the Accommodation and Works Committee if he will assess the benefits of providing a retail outlet selling basic provisions in the atrium of Portcullis House. [140270] Sir Sydney Chapman: The original proposals for Portcullis House included a small shop off the courtyard selling a limited range of goods. Following soundings made by my Committee, it was subsequently decided that the needs of hon. Members and others working in the House could be served better by letting one of the shop units on Bridge Street for use as a small supermarket. Negotiations are now in their final stages and I am pleased to advise the hon. Member that it is expected that the minimart will open early in the new year. The terms of the lease require the tenant to keep the shop open late in the evening, broadly in line with the sittings of the House.

Secondary information