MPs debate selling off Westminster

MPs will discuss selling the Palace of Westminster amid concerns over its long-term future today.

Subsidence caused by work on parliament’s underground car park and new Tube tunnels have led to cracks appearing in walls around the Houses of Commons and Lords, with Big Ben’s bell tower leaning 18in at its peak.

There are even fears the building could sink into the Thames.

MPs on the House of Commons Commission will meet today to discuss a surveyor’s report that suggests options for dealing with the problems, including repairs to the mock-Gothic building which may mean peers and MPs temporarily moving out. The most radical solution would be to sell the estate and move into new offices, though politicians are unlikely to abandon such a famous and prestigious Grade I-listed location.