HC Deb 27 July 1998 vol 317 cc83-4W
Mr. Peter Ainsworth

To ask the Minister without Portfolio (1) what will be inside the giant human figure in the Millennium Dome; [47278]

(2) what is the estimated cost of the giant human figure in the Millennium Dome; [47277]

(3) if he will publish the tender document for the giant human figure in the Millennium Dome; [47281]

(4) if he will make a statement on the sex of the giant human figure in the Millennium Dome; [47282]

(5) which firms will be responsible for creating the giant human figure in the Millennium Dome; [47279]

(6) if he will make a statement on the proposals for a giant human figure in the Millennium Dome; [47283]

(7) how many giant human figures there will be in the Millennium Dome. [47276]

Mr. Mandelson:

[holding answer 23 June 1998]: In order to ensure adequate visitor flow, proposals for the Body Zone now involve two large human figures, one male and one female, brought together as a single structure. Visitors will be able to walk inside the figures and explore and experience the wonders of the human body: how it works, how it has developed; and what the future holds. The overall Body Zone will also address wider issues such as genetics, lifestyles, and medical discoveries.

The designers of the Zone are HP:ICM. The cost of the figures within the Body Zone is commercially confidential at this stage. To reveal it would damage the New Millennium Experience Company's (NMEC's) negotiating position with potential sponsors and contractors. There will be a range of tenders for different works in all the exhibit zones such as heavy structural work, IT equipment, and sound and lighting systems.