Written evidence submitted by Jim Sheridan
MP
Could I begin by congratulating Sir Alan on his appointment
as Chair of the Administration committee, I am confident his knowledge,
experience and track record on representing the concerns of members
will prove to be a valuable asset to the committee. I am sure
I speak for many elected colleagues when I say that the facilities
for members, staff and their families have gradually been eroded
since becoming a member in 2001. My views do not in any way reflect
the collective punishment currently being implemented by IPSA
and being dealt with separately by another body.
The price increases on the parliamentary estate due
to be implemented in September are being done so as I see it without
any consultation with members and will impact significantly on
their staff. My understanding is that this is based on high street
prices who pay taxes which are not applicable to Westminster,
so where will this additional revenue go?
Annie's bar was closed for reasons that it was not
making a profit, and it was convenient to provide for additional
accommodation for house authorities staff, perhaps if it was marketed
properly there could have been a different outcome.
Bellamys bar was also closed, again without any consultation
to provide a creche facility for members and staff. Whilst the
principle was admirable the question remains why does it have
to be at a cost to members facilities.
If these measures are designed to save taxpayers
money, could I suggest you look at the senior management structures
and salaries. From my perspective there are many suits wandering
the catering corridors without any purpose in life.
Finally as predicted those who used these facilities
are now corralled into strangers bar which is now in my view seriously
overcrowded and will be a major health and safety issue in the
Autumn/Winter months. Also the staff who work in there do a magnificent
job under extremely challenging job including having to explain
why they have run out of beer as happened recently Unlike milk
beer does not turn sour so it begs the question why did this happen.
Despite asking the question of management why this happened I
still to date await a reply.
Apologies for the negativity but I do hope that when
future decisions are being made affecting members facilities all
options are explored prior to implementation Equally so it would
be nice to see the decision makers actually using the facilities
that they believe suitable for the rest of us.
If possible could you please circulate this amongst
other members of the committee.
July 2010
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