HC Deb 03 July 1995 vol 263 c16
32. Mr. Pike

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what financial resources will be available in the Duchy benevolent fund for distribution during the current year. [30151]

Mr. David Hunt

Approximately £215,000.

Mr. Pike

Does the Chancellor recognise that part of the money that is left by people who are intestate ultimately goes to the benevolent fund and part of it is used for running the magistracy in the county? Would it not be more appropriate for all the money to be used by the benevolent fund? As I am sure the right hon. Gentleman will be aware, there are many good purposes to which the money can be put.

Mr. Hunt

I am not a trustee of the Duchy benevolent fund, but I know that the trustees donate all the income which is received from investments. Last year 88 per cent. of the money donated went to charitable causes in the Duchy. I recall that the hon. Gentleman wrote to me in April about help for the Burnley Alliance silver band. I am delighted to say that a grant of £800 was made to the junior section of the band for a purchase of a new flugelhorn. I am delighted on this occasion to blow the hon. Gentleman's trumpet for him.

Dame Elaine Kellett-Bowman

May I ask my right hon. Friend to relay to those who run the Duchy benevolent fund the thanks of many thousands of people for the great care and attention to detail which they give to every application that is made to that excellent fund, which is special for the people of Lancashire?

Mr. Hunt

I am delighted to hear the authentic voice of Lancashire. I shall convey to all those involved the praise of my hon. Friend.