Written evidence submitted by Richard
Graham MP
I think the general quality of catering in the House
of Commons is very good, the staff outstanding, and I'm grateful
to all those involved.
One suggestion:
Could the catering committee do more to support great
British foods, and advertise them on its menus?
For example the famous EU protected brand name of
Gloucester Old Spot Sausages: they're absolutely delicious. Old
Spot Sausages and mash in the Strangers and Members dining Room
would be a sell out. And how about some single and double Gloucester
cheese on the cheese board?
I believe the availability and marketing of Gloucester
sausages and cheese and other well known British food brands would
be good for Commons revenue (members would pay more for these
renowned delicacies), good for the health of members and staff
(setting an example on national obesity), and good for our role
as the Champion of all that is best in our country.
And how about going a step further and having a British
Foods Market Week with food stands in Westminster Hall, with a
special overseas buyers reception—and foreign hoteliers/restaurants/airlines
etc come over to see our delicacies in the finest setting for
a food market in the world, opened by HRH Prince of Wales beside
a Gloucester Old Spot pig and a Cotswolds sheep.
The FCO is going to be doing more exporting—no
reason why Westminster Hall cannot become a great showcase for
our leading products (and a modest revenue generator for Parliament).
Have Aston Martin or Jaguar ever been invited to
do a car launch in Westminster Hall?
October 2010
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