HC Deb 18 February 1964 vol 689 c995
1. Mr. Clive Bossom

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works if he will make a statement on the possibility of staging a Son et Lumiére at Hampton Court Palace during the summer months.

The Minister of Public Building and Works (Mr. Geoffrey Rippon)

I can now agree in principle to the staging of Son et Lumiére at Hampton Court Palace. I am considering what arrangement might be made for this summer.

Mr. Bossom

While we welcome this news, may I ask the Minister if he will look into the possibility of staging a river pageant and periodically illuminating the Palace when Son et Lumiére is not there? Lastly, could not more use be made of this historic royal palace by Government hospitality, using the banqueting hall and the Cumberland suite when it is restored?

Mr. Rippon

I will certainly consider any proposals of that nature which may be put forward. I know that the Lord Chamberlain is as anxious as I am that we should make the best possible use of this Royal Palace. I am certain, too, that it would be a good setting for Government hospitality from time to time, and that will apply also to the Cumberland suite when it is completed.