To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many Christmas functions arranged by his Department (a) he and (b) officials of his Department (i) hosted and (ii) attended in 2008; what the cost to the public purse was; and if he will make a statement. (295451)

My predecessor, the right hon. Member for Torfaen (Mr. Murphy), hosted one Christmas function at a cost of £1,054.05. Officials did not attend this reception.