The work includes measures to prevent the clock mechanism from failing, the installation of a lift and the tackling of decay to the inside and outside of the clock. Yet others urged for those carrying out the works to ensure the bell was able to strike on March 29, 2019, as Britain would exit the EU. “Would like to see an infographic for the number of MPs who stood outside for Big Ben versus the number who went to Grenfell,” wrote another on Twitter. Whatever happens next, the controversy has stirred up sufficient interest to potentially force a rethink. The House of Commons Commission said it would reconsider the length of time the bells would fall silent.

Source: The Hindu August 26, 2017 15:27 UTC