To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families 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. (295455)

The Secretary of State for the Department for Children, Schools and families (DCSF) hosted two Christmas functions in 2008. The cost of these events was approximately £2,136. This information was also published on 13 October 2009, Official Report, column 15WS.

Information on events hosted or attended by DCSF officials is not readily available and gathering this information would be at a disproportionate cost.

All spending on official entertainment is made in accordance with the principles set out in “Managing public Money”.