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Embassies: Fees and Charges

Volume 506: debated on Tuesday 23 February 2010

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will consider the merits of removing charges for the use of the premises of overseas posts by UK entrepreneurs holding receptions to promote products and services offered by their companies. (317991)

Making the most of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's assets, including the effective use of our overseas estate, is kept under close review. Diplomatic staff routinely host entertainment in their official residences and other premises overseas to further the Government's strategic priorities, of which support for the UK economy and British businesses is key. In addition to this normal use of our estate, Heads of Post may offer, subject to a number of considerations including security, the use of their official residences for particular events requested by organisations who are willing to pay for the privilege, on the basis that the revenue earned is re-invested in furthering our strategic objectives. We believe this remains a sensible approach and continues to give value to the British taxpayer.