WATSON STEEL is working on a large and prestigious project for the House of Commons.

The Lostock company has won a multi- million pound contract to build a distinctive bronze-coloured aluminium roof with bronze framed windows on the new parliamentary building planned for Westminster. The work - expected to cost around £15 million - will provide a major and distinctive feature for the £200 million building due for completion in the year 2000.

Bolton West MP Tom Sackville was due at the factory this afternoon with a delegation from the Parliamentary Works Directorate.

"I am delighted that Watson Steel - a recognised world leader in its field - has been awarded the contract," Mr Sackville said.

The new building, which has been designed by internationally renowned architect Sir Michael Hopkins, will provide accommodation for 200 MPs and their staff and four new rooms for the holding of select committee hearings. There will also be conference rooms and refreshment facilities.

Work is due to start in July, 1997 after London Underground have completed building a new station for Westminster to accommodate the Jubilee Line extension. Work on the roof will start in 1998 and should be finished by the millennium. Watsons won the contract in competition with half a dozen other firms from the UK and overseas.

The building will have a pink stonework and bronze coloured fittings to make it a major and attractive feature with a sandy bronzy colour next to the House of Commons.

A senior Parliamentary source said: "This is a prestige contract. Watsons did very well indeed to win it. This will be a very distinctive and attractive feature roof."

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