Oral Answers to Questions — House of Commons – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 17 December 1973.
Mr David Steel
, Roxburghshire, Selkirkshire and Peeblesshire
12:00,
17 December 1973
asked the Lord President of the Council what representations have been received from the Secretaries' Council about the pay and conditions of work within the Palace of Westminster; and if he will make a statement.
Mr James Prior
, Lowestoft
I have received several communications from the Secretaries' Council raising a wide range of subjects, and I have also received a communication informing me that a substantial number of Members' secretaries do not wish to be associated with its representations, especially as regards terms of employment.
Mr David Steel
, Roxburghshire, Selkirkshire and Peeblesshire
Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that it would be appropriate for the Compton Inquiry to take this question under its wing?
Mr James Prior
, Lowestoft
I think that, on the whole, it would be better for the Compton Inquiry not to take this matter within its terms of reference. It is one which Members must decide for themselves and, if necessary. refer to the Boyle Committee.
The House of Commons is one of the houses of parliament. Here, elected MPs (elected by the "commons", i.e. the people) debate. In modern times, nearly all power resides in this house. In the commons are 650 MPs, as well as a speaker and three deputy speakers.
