HC Deb 02 April 1980 vol 982 cc248-9W
Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what are the reasons for the 30 per cent. increase in the annuity payable to Princess Anne;

(2) if he will now apply strict cash limits to all expenditure incurred, directly or indirectly via Government departmental Votes, on financial support for the Royal Family;

(3) on whose authority the home of Princess Anne was classified as an official residence; and when;

(4) what are the reasons for the increase from £102,700 to £135,000 in the annuity of Prince Philip;

(5) how much of the £19,600 increase in the annuity to be paid to Princess Anne is attributable to the upkeep of Gatcombe Park;

(6) if he will make a statement on the reasons for the increase in the annuity payable to Princess Margaret to £82,000 for 1980–81.

(7) what have been the payments made from the Duchy of Lancaster to the Keeper of the Privy Purse, for Her Majesty's use, in 1977–78 and in 1978–79; and how much of the increase comes from the Duchy's rent income.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

I shall let the hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.