To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission for what reason the Carriage Gates exit to the Palace of Westminster was closed on 1 February 2010. [319899]

At approximately 5.12 pm on 1 February, a defect with the drop bolt on the Carriage Gates “exit gate” was discovered which left the gate unsecured when in the open position. Due to the risk of the gate swinging closed against a vehicle or person the decision was made to leave the gate in the closed and locked position. Remedial work was carried out overnight and the gate was returned to service. The “in gate” remained in use throughout.