Oral QuestionMinistry of Defence

“What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help detect biosecurity threats.”

Tabled: 14 May 2024Answered: 20 May 2024

Answering Minister

the Secretary of State for Defence

Answer from Hansard

Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney)

The restoration and renewal programme has engaged extensively with staff of both Houses. There is a legal duty to do so under the Parliamentary Buildings (Restoration and Renewal) Act 2019. In the past two years alone, the programme has held over 420 workshops with parliamentary subject experts, engaged over 1,200 staff in group briefings, and taken over 700 staff members on R&R tours of the palace. That includes staff who work for Members, in addition to those who work for both Houses. Enabling staff to engage is vital, and the programme team will continue to ensure that there are opportunities to do so.