Parliamentary Estate (Wi-fi)

Oral Answers to Questions — House of Commons Commission – in the House of Commons at 9:30 am on 28 February 2013.

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Photo of Diana R. Johnson Diana R. Johnson Shadow Minister (Home Affairs) 9:30, 28 February 2013

What recent progress has been made on improvements to wi-fi on the parliamentary estate that will enable the use of internet radios in offices.

Photo of John Thurso John Thurso Chair, Finance and Services Committee, Chair, Finance and Services Committee

Internet radio can be accessed over the parliamentary network from computers and mobile devices. Wi-fi is already available in many Members’ offices, and the remainder will have access by the end of next month. Dedicated wi-fi internet radio devices are not supported on the parliamentary infrastructure.

Photo of Diana R. Johnson Diana R. Johnson Shadow Minister (Home Affairs)

When away from one’s Constituency it is very important to be able to access news. I set great store by listening to BBC Humberside’s news source, but it would be very helpful to be able to access it through the system on the estate. Will that be possible at the end of next month? When are we likely to be able to access regional live TV, which is also very useful for Members in keeping in touch with what is going on in their constituencies?

Photo of John Thurso John Thurso Chair, Finance and Services Committee, Chair, Finance and Services Committee

My understanding is that wi-fi internet radio devices are not accessible via the parliamentary infrastructure because only authorised parliamentary computing devices can be connected to it. However, I have taken note of the points that the hon. Lady has made, and I concur; I would love to be able to listen to Highland and Moray Firth radio. I will therefore, if I may, take it up with the relevant officials and come back to her with a fuller reply in writing.

House of Commons

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.

constituency

In a general election, each Constituency chooses an MP to represent them. MPs have a responsibility to represnt the views of the Constituency in the House of Commons. There are 650 Constituencies, and thus 650 MPs. A citizen of a Constituency is known as a Constituent