HC Deb 23 November 1972 vol 846 cc1507-8
17. Mr. Marten

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she is satisfied with the co-ordination between Lord Mancroft and Lord Goodman over the arrangements for the Fanfare for Europe; and if she will make a statement.

Mrs. Thatcher

Yes, Sir. Both Lord Goodman and Lord Mancroft worked closely together to ensure an extensive and varied programme of events over the country as a whole catering for a wide variety of tastes in both the cultural and sporting spheres.

Mr. Marten

In view of the mounting public amazement at the curious expenditure of this public money in the midst of an economic freeze, will my right hon. Friend tell us what she is doing to monitor the expenditure which is carried on her Vote? Secondly, in view of the vote last night, will she apply for money for a Fanfare for the Commonwealth?

Mrs. Thatcher

My hon. Friend will have to put the latter part of his supplementary question to my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. The Government have allocated £350,000 towards the cost of events for Fanfare for Europe, subject in due course to parliamentary approval of the Supplementary Estimates.

Mr. Jay

Will the right hon. Lady explain what the activities of these two noble Lords have to do with either education or science?

Mrs. Thatcher

Both of them are very distinguished in almost all spheres.