Written evidence submitted by Public and
Commercial Services Union (PCS)
The Public and Commercial Services Union [PCS] would
appreciate you bringing to the attention of your Committee, my
branch's concerns on aspects of access to facilities within the
House.
Recently one of our members, with 30 years' service,
was at a function in the Terrace bar. When he went to the bar
he was refused because of the anachronistic restriction placed
on staff below B2 grade, not being allowed to be served.
You will appreciate this was of great annoyance not
only to him, but to other members within his group, many of whom
were officer status, [B2 is not of that status]. It is a situation
which has been ongoing for years against aggrieved staff.
The incident was raised with the current Speaker,
who suggested it be put as evidence to your inquiry.
What the situation highlights is the totally inappropriate
access rules to staff from D2 to C bands, who are barred from
both access on an individual basis, as well as being unable to
purchase drinks in restricted outlets, even if within a party.
It is quite amusing to hear the reasons why such
rules apply, more so off the record. Classics such as they can't
behave or hold their drink, don't wear the appropriate attire,
swearing would be in abundance, the insulting 'can't use a knife
and fork'. Management's ultimate piece de resistance would be
that these restricted groups would attract unmanageable numbers
in the bar if they were allowed unfettered access.
If only the Sports and Social Club had that problem,
profits might then clear the country's structural debt!
Now that Bellamy's Bar has closed it exacerbates
the dire shortage of licensed facilities in the House.
I jest, but we do have a serious problem in such
rules. How can the House claim to be a fully equal employer, as
well as having accreditation through Investors in People. If the
truth be told, the origins of the ruling was based on class and
elitism and reinforced by contemporary social class divisions
within the House.
Would someone be barred on race, gender or religion?
No. Not surprisingly the restricted grades have a higher racial
mix than those permitted access. Does not look good to those outside
the House, does it?
The House needs a resolution to this unjust rule.
The PCS requests that all catering outlets that allow
B1/2 and Officers of the House admittance and full use of facilities,
be open to all House of Commons permanent employees.
It is unlikely that there would be a stampede should
such restrictions be lifted. It would be nice for staff to be
able to bring a family member or guest to the House.
There may be a case for a minimum qualifying period,
although this would have to overcome any prejudicial grounds that
could be seen to be acting against certain groups, perceived or
otherwise.
I trust the Committee will take our concerns seriously
and subsequently rectify a current blatant discriminatory ruling.
October 2010
| 
