By Salma El-Sakka
The Palace of Westminster could face a catastrophic fire similar to the 2019 Notre Dame blaze if refurbishment delays continue, a parliamentary committee has warned.
Costs Rising Sharply
The Public Accounts Committee said each year of delay adds £420 million to the bill, with weekly maintenance costs expected to reach £2 million, up from £1.5 million currently.
Chair Highlights Real Risks
Committee chair Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown said inaction risks the Chamber being plunged into darkness during the State Opening of Parliament. He warned of "global rolling news footage of Notre Dame-like flames licking out of the building's roof" and possible injuries or loss of life, calling these "real and rising risks."
Long-Standing Deadlock
MPs first voted to vacate the palace for extensive repairs in 2018, but disagreement over costs and methods has persisted. Sir Geoffrey described a "political allergy" to addressing the refurbishment bill.
Phased Plan and Upcoming Vote
Parliamentarians have been asked to commit to a seven-year Phase One programme capped at £3 billion. A vote on Phase Two is expected in 2030. Sir Geoffrey urged authorities to examine cost figures carefully before that vote.
Uncertainty Over Temporary Accommodation
Questions remain about where MPs and Peers would relocate during a full decant of the building.
Parliament Responds
A UK Parliament spokesperson said the committee concludes the palace faces "managed decline" without action. Work is underway to ensure safety, and the Restoration and Renewal Client Board has recommended an initial seven-year works programme with capped costs, which the National Audit Office has endorsed. The proposals will be debated and voted on by both Houses.
