§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Prime Minister what is his policy concerning the use of No. 10 Downing street for non-official or party political functions.
§ The Prime MinisterMinisters 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.
§ Mr. BayleyTo ask the Prime Minister how many bottles of(a) whisky, (b) other spirits and (c) wine were bought from public funds for use at No.10 Downing street and the Prime Minister's other official residences in 1993–94; and how much they cost.
§ The Prime MinisterDisaggregated information of this sort could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. BayleyTo ask the Prime Minister how many meetings or functions have been or will be held at No. 10 Downing street in December 1994 at which alcoholic drinks will be available.
§ The Prime MinisterSuch information could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Prime Minister what charges are made to organisations or persons holding non-official or party functions at No. 10 Downing street in respect of overheads or directs costs associated with such functions.
§ The Prime MinisterWhere 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. KirkwoodTo ask the Prime Minister how many functions have been held at(a) No. 10 Downing street and (b) Chequers since November 1990 where the cost of refreshments was paid by a political party.
§ The Prime MinisterThe answer is:
- (a) 52
- (b) 3