HC Deb 20 April 1998 vol 310 c478
32. Mrs. Virginia Bottomley (South-West Surrey)

What representations he has received about the use of the term "spirit zone". [37440]

The Minister without Portfolio (Mr. Peter Mandelson)

The New Millennium Experience Company's working title for the zone, which aims to explore the values that underpin our society and how they are expressed through faith and belief, is spirit level. The New Millennium Experience Company has received two representations about the use of the term "spirit level" arising from the company's continuing consultations with the Lambeth group on the content of the zone.

Mrs. Bottomley

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Christians and other faith groups had their worst fears confirmed when the contents of the dome were launched at The People's Palace, the same place where Labour celebrated its victory? Their fear is that the Government are exploiting the dome for party political purposes. The term "spirit level" is an insult to the Christian faith and to other religions, and sounds more like a place where Mystic Meg should hang out.

Mr. Mandelson

That is rich coming from the right hon. Lady, the leader of whose party said recently that he would rather take a walk than go to church.