‘Iconic’ British Parliament could close for five years for three billion pound renovation

Aug 27, 2012 |

London

The British Parliament may close for up to five years under plans to carry out a three-billion-pound, taxpayer-funded, renovation work.

MPs would be forced to relocate to replica chambers if the plans to refurbish the Grade I building go ahead.

It would be the first time that the House of Commons and the House of Lords will be left empty since the Second World War.

According to the Daily Mail, Commons officials have warned that the historic building is suffering from chronic subsidence, electrical problems, fire risks, plumbing leaks and is full of asbestos.

The report said that even the boilers, dating back to the Second World War, are ‘ready to blow’.

Cracks have also started to appear in the walls of the Palace, the report said.

The problem is so severe that MPs are even being asked to consider a proposal to sell off the historic building and move into newly built offices.

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