To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission whether the House of Commons Commission recognises the Unite trade union. (325348)

The Unite union is not a recognised trade union under the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act 1992 for the purpose of collective bargaining with the House Service. However, the House Administration has recently agreed a draft memorandum of understanding with Unite and the Members’ and Peers’ Staff Association, who represent staff employed by hon. Members. The memorandum covers a range of areas for dialogue, including IT, catering, training and premises-related issues.