§ Mr. MitchellTo ask the Minister without Portfolio what consultations have been held with focus groups on the Millennium Experience; and if he will publish the results of such consultations. [39316]
§ Mr. MandelsonThe Millennium Commission held focus groups in 1994 when proposals for a national exhibition and festival were first developed. The New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC)—then called Millennium Central—undertook focus group research in March 1997 to consider the broad direction of the project and people's expectations of it, and, as NMEC, undertook soundings through focus groups in August and September 1997 on branding and identity issues.
The outcome of the NMEC's research was detailed by the Company's Chief Executive in her evidence to the Culture, Media and Sport Committee on 2 December and is recorded in the Committee's Second Report, Volume II, Minutes of Evidence and Appendices. Copies of this report are available in the libraries of the House.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Minister without Portfolio when negotiations between NMEC and Koch Hightex over compensation are expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement. [39970]
§ Mr. Mandelson[holding answer 29 April 1998]: Negotiations between the New Millennium Experience Company and Koch Hightex over compensation under the terms of their contract are continuing. It is not possible at 308W this stage to give an indication of when the negotiations might be concluded.