HC Deb 02 May 1996 vol 276 c618W
Mr. Hall

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what charges are made for the use of No. 11 Downing street for charitable or other fund-raising events; and what use is made of the catering and other facilities of No. 11 Downing street at such events. [27780]

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

There is no charge for using No. 11 Downing street for charitable or other fundraising events. The costs of providing security cover are met by the Treasury for charitable events only if cover is deemed necessary.

Event organisers are allowed to use the kitchen facilities for catering purposes, as well as the standard function facilities such as the state room, Soane dining room, and ground floor meeting room.

Mr. Hall

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what are the rules governing the use of No. 11 Downing street for non-official purposes. [27779]

Mr. Clarke

Ministers in this and previous Governments have been allowed to hold non-official functions at No.11 Downing street at their own expense or at the expense of the event organisers. Appropriate arrangements are required for security clearance.