HC Deb 05 July 1993 vol 228 cc11-2W
Mr. Austin Mitchell

To ask the Prime Minister what charges are made for the use of 10 Downing street for charitable or other fund-raising events; and what use is made of the catering and other facilities of 10 Downing street at such events.

The Prime Minister

Where charitable or other non-official events are held at No. 10 Downing street, the organisers are responsible for all catering and staff costs, as well as other miscellaneous direct costs. Organisers may use the kitchens or other facilities at No. 10 Downing street.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Prime Minister (1) what are the rules governing the use of No. 10 Downing street for non-official purposes;

(2) if he will give details of the rules governing the use of 10 Downing street for the purposes of fund raising for political parties.

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 22 June 1993]: Ministers under this and previous administrations have been allowed—at their own or party expense—to host non-official or party receptions or functions in Downing street. All catering, staff and other direct expenses must be met by the organisers of the event. Appropriate arrangements are required for security clearance.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Prime Minister how many functions to raise money for political parties have been held at No. 10 Downing street since 1980.

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 22 June 1993]: Under this and previous Administrations, a variety of functions have been held at No. 10 Downing street where the costs have been met by political parties. The purpose of such functions is not a matter for the Government, but I can confirm that since November 1990, there have been no functions at 10 Downing street at which funds have been raised for political parties, or for which tickets have been sold for the benefit of political parties.

Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Prime Minister what charities benefited from functions organised in No. 10 Downing street in each year since 1984.

The Prime Minister

[holding answers 22 and. 23 June 1993]: Since November 1990, there have been a total of 25 receptions, dinners or other functions at No. 10 Downing street for charities or voluntary bodies. The organizations concerned have been:

  • NSPCC
  • Surrey County Cricket Club Youth Trust
  • Lords Taverners
  • MENCAP
  • Age Concern
  • EUREKA
  • Wordsworth Trust
  • Huntington's Disease Association
  • Action Research
  • Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust
  • National Council of Hospice and Specialist Palliative
  • Care Crossroads Care1
  • Animal Health Trust
  • ORT
  • Youth Clubs (UK) ChildLine
  • Silver Trust
  • Marie Curie Cancer Care
  • Excalibur Scheme Motability
  • Westminster Foundation for Democracy
  • London Community Cricket Association
  • International Spinal Research Trust
  • Cambridge Arts Theatre Trust
  • 1 two functions