Repairs to Parliament could cost taxpayers £7.1billion
THE taxpayer faces a bill of up to £7.1billion to stop the Palace of Westminster falling down unless MPs and peers agree to move out, according to a report.
Houses of Parliament
A study by independent consultants has highlighted the appalling state of Parliament - with major fire risks and the threat of roof collapses.
It proposes a series of options from politicians staying in the building to a "full decant" that would see both chambers emptied and moved to temporary accommodation.
If MPs and peers remain, the necessary work will take an estimated 32 years and could cost £5.7billion - with the possibility that the figure could hit £7.1billion.
A mid-option would see MPs and peers vacate the chambers in turn, at a cost of around £4.4billion.
Fully leaving the heritage site while it is renovated into a state-of-the art building with mod cons would take six years and cost £3.9billion.
A joint committee of MPs and peers will now be formed to consider the choices.