§ Lord Aveburyasked Her Majesty's Government:
How much was spent by the Prime Minister on hospitality in each of the years 1997–98 to 2001–02. [HL4290]
§ The Lord Privy Seal (Lord Williams of Mostyn)The total cost for all official entertainment at 10 Downing Street and Chequers was as follows:
- 1997–98: £43,777
- 1998–99: £53,639
- 1999–2000: £60,652
- 2000–01: £72,790
The programme of events is designed to give people the opportunity to visit No. 10, including for example regular children's tea parties and receptions for a wide-ranging cross-section of the community. In 2001 these included receptions for teachers, NHS workers, the police, members of the emergency services and victims of the floods.