§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister for the Civil Service whether he will give for the longest and most convenient stated period of time, the total number of ministerial cocktail parties and receptions held and for what stated purposes; which MPs and Lords attended them; whether, in view of the Government's policy of cutting expenditure, he will end these parties; and what the annual savings would be if such action were taken.
§ Mr. Charles R. MorrisThe total number of ministerial cocktail receptions arranged and paid for from the Government Hospitality Fund during the financial year 1975–76 was 71. These receptions were given for overseas guests attending international conferences sponsored by Her Majesty's Government, or in which Her Majesty's Government have a direct interest, and for visiting foreign Heads of State, Ministers and missions coming to this country for official talks. Figures are not readily available for the number of MPs and Lords who attended. Had these functions not taken place, the saving for the year would have been £40,792. It is Government policy to extend a reasonable degree of hospitality to distinguished visitors from overseas, both as a necessary courtesy and a contribution towards the successful outcome of the visit. The expenditure involved is modest by comparison with the good 331W will generated and the potential advantage to the United Kingdom.