§ Mr. EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the entertainment budget for his Department was in each year from 1997 to date. [160101]
§ Mr. WilsonTotal worldwide entertainment expenditure amounted to £10.3 million in 1997–98, £9.3 million in 1998–99 and £11.2 million in 1999–2000. Figures for 2000–01 are not yet available. Expenditure on entertainment covers a wide range of activities including promotional and trade events, receptions in honour of high-level visitors, and events to establish and cultivate contacts; all were undertaken in pursuit of FCO objectives, both at home and in our 224 Posts overseas.
In addition, the FCO-administered Government Hospitality Fund, drawn upon by all Government Departments when entertaining overseas visitors, spent £1.2 million in 1997–98, £1.8 million in 1998–99, and £1.3 million in 1999–2000.