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<p>The Elizabeth Tower refurbishment project, with a budget of £61 million jointly
funded by the two Houses, is intended to conserve and prevent further deterioration
of the Elizabeth Tower, including the Great Clock; ensure its fire safety compliance;
improve the health and safety of the Elizabeth Tower for Members, staff and the public;
improve the security and the efficiency of emergency evacuations; and improve the
efficiency of the tours in the Elizabeth Tower. No works are required to be undertaken
on the Great Bell (“Big Ben”) itself. The project is due for completion in 2021.</p><p><br>Work
on the project is progressing well. For instance, all elements of the Great Clock,
and all cast iron roof components, have been removed from the Tower for conservation
work and glazing, gilding and paint stripping work are continuing. Work on restoring
the original colour scheme for the clock dials is well advanced. Arrangements have
been made to ensure the Great Bell is sounded to mark Remembrance Sunday and Armistice
Day, and to ring in the New Year on New Year’s Eve. <br> <br>The Finance Committee
receives regular updates on the progress of the project.</p><p> </p>
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