EXC: Parliament Refuses to Reveal Cost of Controversial Eyesore Security Fence
The ugly new security fence slapped up outside the House of Lords has triggered fury from all corners. As Guido revealed, industry insiders say the planning process was “highly irregular.” Tory peer Michael Dobbs has blasted the towering metal eyesore as “dangerous,” warning it “cuts off sightlines” to potential attackers…
Naturally, Guido’s FOI Unit swung into action to discover just how much taxpayers were fleeced for this monstrosity. The House of Lords confirmed they do hold the figures – but are refusing to disclose them on so-called prevention of crime and national security grounds:
“However, we consider that information relating to the cost of the fence, including a breakdown as requested, is exempt under sections 31(1)(a) (prevention and detection of crime) and 24(1) (safeguarding national security) of the FOIA, as disclosure of this information would provide significant detail of security measures on the Parliamentary Estate.”
Guido’s not asking for the blueprints – just the bill. This comes after the farce of the Lords’ £9.6 million broken door. What exactly are they hiding?
