- Officials aim to get a Michelin star by cashing in on exclusive catering venues
- The catering department’s losses have been halved between 2011 and 2016
- Public will be able to enjoy a Churchill-themed dinner for £80-a-head this month
The House of Commons will open its dining rooms to the public and step up the number of wedding receptions it hosts as part of a plan to end the taxpayer-funded subsidy on bars and restaurants used by MPs.
Officials are aiming to get a Michelin star as they cash in on the exclusive catering venues that overlook the River Thames.
The House of Commons will open its dining rooms to the public and step up the number of wedding receptions it hosts as part of a plan to end the taxpayer-funded subsidy on bars and restaurants used by MPs
Sir Paul Beresford, the Tory chair of the administration committee that oversees the running of the Commons, is hoping to end all taxpayer handouts.
The catering department’s losses have been halved from £6million-a-year in 2011 to £3million last year.
By increasing the amount of outside business, Sir Paul believes the venues can turn a profit.
Later this month, members of the public will be able to enjoy a Churchill-themed dinner where for £80-a-head where they will be able dunk bread in beef dripping candles and enjoy chocolate cigars for pudding.
Reservations can also been made for lunch and dinner in the Members’ Dining Room when Parliament is not sitting, with diners invited to have a drink in the Pugin Room before or after their meal.
The Commons is also looking to increase the number of civil ceremonies and wedding receptions it holds in its banqueting rooms.

Officials are aiming to get a Michelin star as they cash in on the exclusive catering venues that overlook the River Thames
Sir Paul said: ‘I want us to aim for a Michelin star. I think we could do it. We have award winning chefs.
‘There’s a myth we’re heavily subsidised. We’ve reduced the costs over the past five years from £6million service cost in 2011 to £3million.
‘People won’t forget dining here. It’s such a special place. What we’ve tried to do is recognise this fantastic facility and the phenomenal ability here to produce amazing food”.
‘The Pugin Room is my favourite – it looks like a gentleman’s club from 100 years ago”
‘There are some phenomenal, capable chefs and we’re bringing in training. We are keen on developing our staff.
‘The food is far better than some of the very posh, expensive restaurants around here.
‘The place has been busier recently due to Brexit legislation – there are many members around parliament. In the election it was the exact opposite. So we’ve made up for the losses.’
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