Oral QuestionHouse of Commons Commission

“To ask the hon. Member for Perth and North Perthshire, representing the House of Commons Commission, whether the Commission plans to further restrict access to the House of Commons in response to the outbreak of covid-19.”

Tabled: 16 March 2020Answered: 19 March 2020

Asked by

Clive Efford

Labour — Eltham and Chislehurst

Answering Minister

the hon. Member for Perth and North Perthshire, representing the House of Commons Commission

Answer from Hansard

The Prime Minister (Andy Burnham)

Today we welcome the Sultan of Oman on the occasion of the state visit, which is an opportunity to recognise the deep and historic ties between our countries and the vital role they have played regarding the strait of Hormuz. As you say, Mr Speaker, today also marks the 60th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster. I am sure that the thoughts of the whole House will be with that community today and with the people of Wales. I visited Aberfan on Monday and heard how the injustices the people suffered at the time and in the aftermath of the tragedy at the hands of the state still hurt. This is a day to recognise that and say sorry for it, but also to celebrate the strength and spirit of the community that has stood together through adversity all of these years. I had meetings with ministerial colleagues and others this morning. In addition to my duties in this House, I shall have further such meetings later today.