§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Prime Minister what proposals he has to(a) modernise and (b) reduce the cost of arrangements for the State opening of Parliament. [30858]
§ The Prime Minister[holding answer 24 February 1998]: The ceremony, which should reflect the importance of the occasion, is the responsibility of the Earl Marshal. Expenditure for the next State Opening of Parliament is likely to be in line with previous expenditure on the ceremony.