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Written question asked by Alan Brown (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 12 January 2022, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 14 January 2022. It was answered by Charles Walker (Conservative) on Friday, 21 January 2022 on behalf of the House of Commons Commission.


Big Ben: Repairs and Maintenance

Question

To ask the hon. Member for Broxbourne, representing the House of Commons Commission, pursuant to the Answer of 11 January 2022 to Question 96953 on Big Ben: Repairs and Maintenance, what the estimated additional cost is for (a) the four-month site closure in 2020, (b) investment in covid-19 secure measures and (c) the reduced productivity on site until November 2020.

Answer

The total cost to date of covid-19 impacts on the project, including the four-month site closure in 2020, investment in covid-19 secure measures and the reduced productivity on site until November 2020, is £5.7m, including VAT. These costs are met from the approved £9m provision, listed in the answer to Question 96953.

This figure has been scrutinised by independent consultants, who are confident in the financial projections that have been developed by teams in the House Service, recognising the exceptionality of the project and its highly specific requirements.

Parliament’s teams have mitigated against the financial impact of coronavirus, working collaboratively and positively with contractors to reduce the impact to the taxpayer, and ensuring that costs paid by Parliament are proportionate to its contractual obligations. The project’s teams continue to meet the challenges posed by this complex conservation and enjoy the support of the leadership of both Houses in their delivery and approach.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
102681
Session
2021-22
Related items
Big Ben: Repairs and Maintenance
Tuesday, 11 January 2022
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Costs Disease control Repairs and maintenance Big Ben Coronavirus
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk