HC Deb 27 July 1998 vol 317 c82W
37. Sir Teddy Taylor

To ask the Minister without Portfolio if he will make a statement on progress in attracting private sector sponsorship for the Millennium Dome. [50805]

Mr. Mandelson

I refer to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Buckingham (Mr. Bercow) earlier today.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Minister without Portfolio what undertakings he has given to sponsors of the Millennium Dome. [50804]

Mr. Mandelson

As shareholder of the New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC) I have offered no undertakings to sponsors. Whilst retaining overall editorial control to ensure the integrity of the Millennium Experience the NMEC are offering sponsors a range of benefits depending on the level of sponsorship involved.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Minister without Portfolio what ethical criteria he applies in selecting potential sponsors for the Millennium Dome. [49152]

Mr. Mandelson

[holding answer 7 July 1998]: In identifying potential sponsors, the New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC) are determined to maintain the integrity of the project as the focus for the nation's millennium celebrations, and to ensure that any sponsorship arrangement does not diminish the inclusive nature of the Experience. These broad considerations underpin the Company's decisions in respect of its commercial income target.