§ Mr. Tony BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland who currently holds the position of deputy keeper of the palace of Holyroodhouse and the baille and clerk of the Abbey court; what accommodation within the palace is available to them; and what is the cost to public funds. [17898]
§ Mr. Kynoch[holding answer 1 March 1996]: The position of deputy keeper of the palace of Holyroodhouse is currently held by Lord James Douglas-Hamilton. The position of baille and clerk of the Abbey court is currently held by Mr. Patrick Cadell. No accommodation is provided for them within the palace, they are unpaid and there is no cost to public funds arising from their appointments.
§ Mr. BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, pursuant to his answer of 22 February,Official Report, column 288, if he will give details of the accommodation available to the hereditary keeper; what services are provided to him; what duties are undertaken by him; and what is the total cost to public funds arising from the office of hereditary keeper. [17976]
§ Mr. Kynoch[holding answer 1 March 1996]: The accommodation available to the hereditary keeper comprises three reception rooms, two bedrooms and an office. Unless he is occupying the accommodation is connection with his ceremonial duties, the hereditary keeper is required to meet the costs of all services such 314W as heating, lighting and water incurred during periods of occupation. The present hereditary keeper hardly ever occupies the accommodation, which is available for use by the royal household whenever required.
The duties of the hereditary keeper are entirely ceremonial. He receives the Queen and the Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland when they visit the palace. There are no costs to public funds arising from the office of hereditary keeper.