§ Mr. SalterTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how expenditure by the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland on preparations for events celebrating the new Millennium will be funded. [32400]
§ Marjorie MowlamThe Department of the Environment is empowered by Parliamentary approval through Supply Estimates and the confirming Appropriation Orders to provide financial support to certain events promoting Northern Ireland. The events celebrating the new Millennium should also promote Northern Ireland's image in a positive manner. However, as they may be novel and different from current promotional activities, Parliament's approval for expenditure in the current financial year on preparations for such events will be sought in a Supplementary Estimate for the Environmental and Other Services Vote (Department of the Environment Vote 4). Pending that approval expenditure up to an estimated £60,000 will be met by repayable advances from the Civil Contingencies Fund. I am also examining the possibility of seeking Parliament's approval for new legislation which would specifically authorise such expenditure.