§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been the cost to public funds to his Department of each meeting of the Scottish Grand Committee in the current Session, and what estimate he has made of the cost of each meeting which is due to take place; and if he will itemise the costs. [12016]
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe cost of hiring venues, catering, security and use of equipment and so on, is borne by the House authorities. Scottish Office officials supporting Ministers in connection with Committee meetings do so as part of their normal duties and no additional staff costs are incurred.