Written evidence submitted by Teresa Pearce
MP
I am writing to register my concerns about the recent
decision to implement a flat £15 charge in the Members Dining
Room.
I understand the decision to introduce the flat fee
was made during a meeting of the House of Commons Commission on
21 June. Other changes decided at that meeting, such as to increase
catering prices across the Parliamentary Estate, have been communicated
to Members and their staff through various bulletins on the intranet.
However, the decision to introduce a flat £15 charge in the
Members Dining Room was not communicated to Members and I do not
believe that we have been adequately consulted about the change.
I am very concerned about the introduction of this
flat rate fee, as I do not believe this represents good value
for money for the taxpayer. I often visit the Members Dining Room
for light meals for which the retail price is far below £15.
I am also concerned about the use of non-itemised receipts in
the Members Dining Room and the impression this may give the general
public when the subsistence claims of Members are published.
I would be grateful if you would register these objections
and speak to the House of Commons Commission about reviewing this
decision.
October 2010
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