Houses of Parliament Drinks Reception
As alumnae of the University of Brighton , my colleague Krista McKerrell and I were fortunate enough to be invited by the university to an evening reception at the Houses of Parliament .
Upon arrival we were shown to the terrace where we enjoyed excellent wine and canapes whilst watching the sun set across the river and admiring the external architecture .
There has been significant underinvestment in the Palace of Westminster and an extensive renovation programme is scheduled to take place over the coming years . Some areas have not undergone appropriate renovation since the Palace was built in the mid-
1800s . The costs of the programme will be significant , with estimates of around £ 6m , but the benefits will include increased energy efficiency and lower running costs , improved disabled access , installation of fire safety systems and modern communications technology , extensive conservation of stonework , and major restoration works on the cast iron roofs . The programme is designed to protect the Palace and its historic legacy for future generations , while ensuring value for money for the taxpayer .
Our host for the evening was Lord Bassam of Brighton who warmly welcomed us to the event and spoke about his career in Parliament and the importance of alumni maintaining links with their former universities to assist current students in the development of their careers .
Professor Debra Humphris has been Vice-Chancellor of the University of Brighton since December 2015 . She spoke passionately to us about the challenges currently facing the University . Following the EU referendum in June , all four UK nations confirmed that current EU students and those starting courses this autumn would be eligible for loans and grants to fund their studies for the
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