MPs are planning to make the Houses of Parliament one of the greenest buildings in the country by implementing measures such as double glazing and energy efficient lighting.

Currently, the Westminster landmark, which contains the parliamentary debating chambers, uses enough energy to power 6,500 households.

But under the £20 million proposals, a 35m wind turbine would be installed as well as a 120-metre borehole into the Thames to provide pure drinking water

Liberal Democrat MP Norman Baker said: "We can't afford to do nothing and that is exactly what parliament has done for too long.

"Parliament at the moment is extremely unfriendly to the environment. Now, if we accept these measures there's a chance we could become an emblem of sustainability for the country. The measures outlined here are very welcome indeed."

Mr Baker claims that the amount of electricity consumed in the Houses of Parliament has risen by 87 per cent since 1997.

© Adfero Ltd

Author:  Joanne McCabe

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