§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Prime Minister how many official conferences, receptions, dinners, lunches and other gatherings have taken place in the United Kingdom in consequence of the British presidency of the EEC; where these events have taken place; what has been the cost to public funds; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterAs of 4 November, 50 official meetings (of which nine at ministerial level), four receptions, 18 dinners and 57 lunches have taken place in the United Kingdom in consequence of our presidency of the EC. The majority have taken place in London. Meetings have also taken place in Hertfordshire, the Lake District, Somerset, Oxford, Glasgow, Surrey, Edinburgh, Broadway and Gleneagles. The additional costs to public funds of these events on the basis of accounts settled so far is estimated at approximately £323,000.