Written question asked by Ken Purchase (Labour) on Tuesday, 25 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 June 2004. It was answered by Lord Bilston (Labour) on Monday, 14 June 2004 on behalf of the Catering Committee.

Catering Select Committee

Question: To ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee, if he will make a statement on the change in arrangements relating to the locking of the door between Strangers' Bar and the terrace; and what assessment he has made of the implications of the new arrangements for (a) convenience of access for honourable Members and (b) emergency evacuation in the event of a fire.

Answer: Mr. Purchase: To ask the Chairman of the Catering Committee if he will make a statement on the change in arrangements relating to the locking of the door between Strangers Bar and the Terrace; and what assessment he has made of the implications of the new arrangements for (a) convenience of access for hon. Members and (b) emergency evacuation in the event of a fire. [176395] Mr. Dennis Turner: As one of a number of measures to enhance security in the House of Commons, the Speaker instructed the Serjeant at Arms to lock the door between Strangers' Bar and the Terrace. A quick release lock is being fitted to the door as a matter of urgency; meanwhile, I understand that the Fire Safety Manager is content with the temporary arrangements in place for emergency evacuation in the event of a fire. Hon. Members may get to the Terrace by the entrance next to the Cafeteria.

Secondary information