The cost of an empty building to the taxpayer

Back in October 2007, the House of Commons Commission purchased a lease on a property in Tothill Street, Westminster, since that time the building has stood empty, apparently having work done on it by the landlord which will be completed in October 2010.

And what has been the cost to us, the taxpayer, of having the right to enter this empty building in October this year? Well thus far we've spent £4.8 million (including VAT) on rent and £175,000 on business rates.

Cheap as chips for Westminster no doubt!