5 The Longer Term
35. In this report we recommend to the House new
entry arrangements for visitors. In endorsing such plans for the
short- to medium-term, we recognise that our solution is only
an initial and partial one. We believe our proposal would provide
better access for visitors; specific facilities for their reception,
searching and welcome; and allow the provision of information
on Parliament's work and its buildings.
36. Yet, within the limitations of the historic building,
and without undue disruption of current users, we cannot identify
a space that would offer other facilities that we judge desirable:
· an
exhibition space explaining the work and role of Parliament;
· accommodation
for school parties and their reception;
· a bookshop/retail
facility;
· a ticket
office for tours of Parliament;
· a display
area for pictures and artefacts from Parliament's collection;
These facilities await a fuller study, and a further
report.
37. We believe that, in the meantime,
the House, in association with the House of Lords, needs to move
ahead with constructing the proposed building and the new access
route for the public. This would result in significant improvements
in the facilities for visitors and enhance the security of the
Palace of Westminster.
38. Our visitors are the electors
of the present and the future, or those who come from abroad to
visit one of the most important and historic sites in the United
Kingdom. They deserve a positive approach to their access and
welcome. With our proposals, we believe we have begun to demonstrate
such a policy, which we hope the House will endorse.
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