HC Deb 03 September 1998 vol 317 cc878-9W
Mr. Ian Bruce

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps his Department is taking to encourage businesses to contribute towards the Millennium Dome; and if he will list those which have done so. [54464]

Mr. Mandelson

[holding answer 31 July 1998]: The Department of Trade and INdustry will have no role as regards sponsorship of the Millennium Dome. As sole shareholder of the New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC) I will continue to receive advice on millennial matters, including sponsorship, from officials at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. I would also refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Christchurch (Mr. Chope) today, Official Report, column 879.

Mr. Chope

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if his Department is now the sponsoring department for the Millennium Commission; and if he will make a statement. [54391]

Mr. Mandelson

[holding answer 31 July 1998]: The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) will remain as the sponsoring department for the Millennium Commission. Officials from the Department will continue to support me in my role as the sole shareholder in the New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC).

Mr. Chope

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if the grant memorandum between the Millennium Commission and the New Millennium Experience Company will be altered following changes in departmental responsibilities; and if he will make a statement. [54390]

Mr. Mandelson

[holding answer 31 July 1998]: No changes will need to be made to the grant memorandum between the Millennium Commission and the New Millennium Experience Company. I will remain as shareholder of the New Millennium Experience Company, and will continue to be advised in this role by officials from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Mr. Chope

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when the shares in the New Millennium Experience Company were transferred from the Minister without Portfolio to the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry. [54392]

Mr. Mandelson

[holding answer 31 July 1998]: No transfer was necessary as the shares are held in my name rather than my position in Government.