Parliament restoration delays 'frustrating', says Commons Speaker
Summary
House of Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle said delays to Parliament’s restoration are frustrating and urged lawmakers to begin essential repairs sooner. The project could cost up to £40 billion and take as long as 61 years, while a vote on initial work may take place by the new year, though no date is set.Key Facts
- Hoyle said Parliament spends too much time conducting surveys instead of starting repairs.
- Current legislation requires Parliament to approve the full scope and funding before major renovations can begin.
- A Commons public accounts committee warned that the restoration had reached a critical point.
- The committee said the project could cost up to £40 billion and take 61 years.
- The committee estimated that each year of delay costs taxpayers £420 million.
- The Palace has fire-safety concerns, high levels of asbestos, and aging wires and pipes.
- A possible vote would consider up to £3 billion in initial work and narrow the restoration options.
- One option would move MPs and peers out for up to 24 years from 2032; another would move only the House of Lords and could take 61 years.
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