asked the Lord President of the Council if he is satisfied with the security arrangements in the House ; and if he will make a statement.

The Joint Committee on Security has continued to meet regularly. It examines security arrangements for the Palace of Westminster and takes whatever additional steps it deems to be necessary to deal with emergencies as they arise.

asked the Lord President of the Council if, following the paint throwing incident of Thursday 7th December, he will now refer to the Joint Committee on Security the possible use of electronic devices such as those used at airports as a means of detecting metal objects.

The Joint Committee on Security has already considered this matter, and recommended that additional screening equipment should be provided. This equipment has been ordered.