Recent surveys identified over 1,650 asbestos items across the parliamentary estate, with nearly 200 classified as medium risk requiring potential remedial work. The Commons Public Accounts Committee warned that ongoing delays are costing taxpayers £420m each year while the site remains under threat of a devastating fire. To maintain safety, officials have already removed 700 items over five years, but fully eliminating the hazard is considered practically impossible without demolishing structural fabric. Lawmakers are being urged to authorize an initial £3bn works package before the end of the year.
Key points
Lawmakers must vote before the end of the year to decide on £3bn in initial works and sel…: Lawmakers must vote before the end of the year to decide on £3bn in initial works and select a restoration plan.
The historic site relies on 24-hour patrols to prevent a potential fire that could consum…: The historic site relies on 24-hour patrols to prevent a potential fire that could consume the buildings.
Authorities have removed 700 asbestos items over five years but admit total removal would…: Authorities have removed 700 asbestos items over five years but admit total removal would severely damage the historic fabric.
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More asbestos has been discovered in Parliament, the BBC has learnt, as MPs come under pressure to sign off on a major revamp of the crumbling home of UK democracy.
Known asbestos items in the Palace of Westminster and wider parliamentary estate, such as insulation, roofing, floor tiles and ropes, now number more than 1,650 - an increase of 500 since 2021.
It comes as the government considers holding a vote on refurbishing Parliament, which could cost up to £40bn and take 61 years, after years of indecision and delay.
The Commons public accounts committee this week warned it was "crunch time" for Parliament's restoration, with every additional year of delay costing taxpayers £420m.
More asbestos items were found during surveys in preparation for the long-awaited refurbishment project, parliamentary authorities said.
Asbestos has been identified as one of the main reasons for the refurbishment, given the dangers to human health when its fibres are airborne. While asbestos is largely fireproof, surrounding fire and heat can release fibres over long distances.
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