§ Mr. Waldenasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what arrangements have been made to celebrate the 700th anniversary of Parliament; and at what cost to public funds.
§ Mr. DiamondThe Committee under Mr. Speaker which has been preparing the necessary plans has already announced that, to mark this anniversary, Her Majesty has graciously consented to be present in Westminster Hall on 22nd June and to receive Addresses to be presented by both Houses of Parliament. The cost of the necessary arrangements and of an associated reception for distinguished visitors from the Commonwealth and overseas will be about £12,000. The Government have also decided to make a special grant to the Hansard Society to enable it to make a contribution towards the celebrations by promoting a series of youth meetings, an essay competition, and lectures to schools within a total of £5,000 to which it is hoped other sources will also contribute. A Supplementary Estimate for the necessary sums will be introduced in the summer.