HC Deb 08 February 1977 vol 925 cc618-9W
Mr. John Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, further to his Answer, Official Report, 2nd February, column 181, how many full-time employees work at the new Government Press Centre at Little St. James Street, London, S.W.1.

Mr. Luard

A permanent custodian and, for the first six months of this year only, the Press Centre manager and his assistant.

Mr. John Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will publish in the Official Report a list showing the meetings already scheduled for the next six months usage of the Government Press Centre, in Little St. James Street, London, S.W.1.

Mr. Luard

There are four meetings for which the Press Centre will definitely be required, as followsPolitical Co-operation Meeting of Foreign Ministers, 18th and 19th April. NATO Ministerial Meeting, 10th and 11th May. Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, 8th to 16th June. Meeting of the European Council, 29th and 30th June.

At other times during the next six months, the Press Centre will be available for Press conferences or in connection with other meetings taking place at Lancaster House or elsewhere, if required.

Mr. John Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many journalists attended the Press conference for the Prime Minister and the United States Vice-President at the new Government Press Office at Little St. James' Street, London, S.W.1.

Mr. Luard

Approximately 250, including cameramen.