According to UBP backbencher Mr. Tim Smith, who released details of the proposed alterations in the House yesterday, the building will be fitted with two dramatic new features: a skylight over the inner courtyard and an elevator on the side of the southeast tower.

The skylight, which will consist of a frosted panel through which light will be filtered, will not "adversely impact upon the eventual installation of a suspended concrete floor'' that was proposed for the area in February 1993, Mr. Smith said.

Furthermore, "great care will be taken in the detailing of the ceiling to ensure its aesthetic correctness as viewed from the interior of the building''.

The skylight will be installed during the House's recess this summer.

The elevator, which has been moved to the southeast tower from its previously proposed location at the House's eastern entrance, will not be as conspicuous under the new plan, Mr. Smith announced.

At the southeast location, the elevator will be "less of an intervention to this historic structure,'' allowing "for a less obtrusive handicap ramp and access that was not included in earlier plans,'' he said.

The addition of the elevator is planned for the early part of the 1995-1996 financial year.