HC Deb 25 June 2003 vol 407 cc851-2W
Mr. Pickles

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister, how many conferences were organised by the Audit Commission in each of the last five years; and what the cost of each was. [113554]

Yvette Cooper

The information requested is tabled as follows:

Number of conferences held by the Commission Total net cost of conferences (at constant 2001–02 prices) (£) Average cost of each conference (£)
1997–98 21 171,800 8,180
1998–99 22 184,300 8,380
1999–2000 50 269,100 5,380
2000–01 22 94,100 4,280
2001–02 23 137,000 5,960

The majority of conferences arranged by the Audit Commission are self-financed from fees paid by delegates. The Commission also however arranges a number of free conferences and seminars with the aim of disseminating the findings of their work to target audiences or to consult relevant stakeholders.