To ask the Prime Minister what discussions his Office has had with the City of London Corporation since 1 January. [30929]

[holding answer 23 February 1998]: The City of London Corporation asked my office informally last autumn whether we would be content for Chancellor Kohl to be presented with the Freedom of the City of London. I did not initiate this process, but I was delighted that they wished to do this. Following confirmation from my office that I was content and Chancellor Kohl's own agreement, the Corporation formally agreed a recommendation to this effect on 4 December 1997. Since 1 January this year, my office has been in contact with the Corporation authorities on the practical arrangements, including my own involvement.