HC Deb 05 June 1996 vol 278 cc481-2W
23. Mr. Robert Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland who is responsible for meeting the cost of security for political party conferences. [30095]

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

Under section 170 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 my right hon. Friend may contribute towards the cost of security at each qualifying party's main annual conference. Policing costs incurred on all party conferences are met from the budget of the police authority or joint board concerned, with the assistance of police specific grant, normally at 51 per cent. of the budget, from the Scottish Office.