§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will raise with the Services Committee the possible use of Westminster Hall in the summer for public concerts, exhibitions and other arts-related events; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BiffenThe control of Westminster Hall is vested jointly in the Lord Great Chamberlain and in the two Speakers on behalf of the two Houses.
The principles governing the exercise of their discretion to grant the use of the Hall for non-parliamentary functions are that such events should be either a royal occasion, a ceremony in honour of a Head of State or one 835W having clear historical connections with Parliament or the Hall itself. I believe that these principles are in accordance with the wishes of the House.