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Badenoch Slams £40 Billion Parliament Restoration Plan as Wasteful

2/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Kemi Badenoch, UK government minister, criticized the proposed £40 billion restoration of the Houses of Parliament as a 'net zero Dubai hotel'.
The plan aims to enhance accessibility, cut energy use by over 40%, and establish a permanent education center, but could require 61 years.
Since 2016, the Palace of Westminster has faced 36 fire incidents and 12 asbestos cases, costing about £1.5 million weekly for repairs.

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Story summary

Kemi Badenoch, UK government minister, criticized the proposed £40 billion restoration of the Houses of Parliament as a 'net zero Dubai hotel'.
The plan aims to enhance accessibility, cut energy use by over 40%, and establish a permanent education center, but could require 61 years.
Since 2016, the Palace of Westminster has faced 36 fire incidents and 12 asbestos cases, costing about £1.5 million weekly for repairs.