To ask Her Majesty's Government how much was spent by the Equality and Human Rights Commission in each year since its formation on (a) entertainment, and (b) consultants. [HL1703]

The Equality and Human Rights Commission spent in 2007-08:

(a) hospitality—£15,265; and

(b) consultants—0.

The commission expects to spend in the 2008-09 full financial year:

(a) hospitality—£11,381; and

(b) consultants—£420,000.