§ Mr. BoyesTo ask the Lord President of the Council what was the total cost of official entertaining in his office in each year since 1990–91; if he will list the receptions held in each year at his office's expense; and what was the cost of each reception.
§ Mr. NewtonThe cost of official entertainment in the Privy Council Office in 1992–93 was £9,776, and in 1993–94 £9,892. Figures for previous years were not recorded. Expenditure on hospitality is, however, included within the running cost expenditure for my Department which is published each year in the annual report. Expenditure on entertainment covers a variety of functions, including receptions. Details of the expenditure attributable to particular functions could not be provided except at disproportionate cost.