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<p>The decision taken on the future model for guided tours is an operational business
matter and it has been taken by the executive management of both Houses. Member Committees
in both Houses and the House of Commons Commission were consulted during the making
of this decision and the new model for tours has been endorsed by all of these bodies.</p><p>The
current contract with Blue Badge Guides to deliver commercial guided tours in Parliament
ends in October 2018. Even if no changes were made to the way guided tours are delivered
under procurement law the contract would need to be retendered through open competition,
with no guarantees that the current provider would be successful.</p><p>The decision
was made following thorough scrutiny of three options, including keeping the current
system as it is. The business case in favour of the chosen option was approved because
it will simplify the management of our tours operation as a whole, maintain consistent
quality across all types of tours offered, create 28 new full-time and part-time jobs,
end Parliament’s use of casual workers with no guaranteed hours, and also save a modest
amount of taxpayers’ money.</p><p>The decision has been taken, and all efforts are
now focussed on the important task of delivery of the agreed changes in 2018. Member
engagement in the implementation of the new model is welcomed and Members can do so
by contacting Amy Pitts, Director of Visitor and Retail Services, or John Thursfield,
Guided Tours Review Project Manager.</p>
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