§ 46. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister for the Civil Service what were the estimated costs to the Exchequer for the antiques, flowers and other alterations made to the 15 boxes for the visit to the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, by President Giscard d'Estaing; who used these boxes; and who was invited at the expense of the Exchequer to the performance of Verdi's "Un Ballo in Maschera".
§ Mr. Charles R. MorrisCertain antique furniture was lent to the Royal Opera House for this occasion at a total cost of approximately £100 for insurance. The estimate for floral decorations throughout the theatre is £2,397 and the cost of removing and replacing the grand tier boxes is estimated at £1,600. On such occasions there is no detailed ministerial responsibility for the guest lists.