Written question asked by Caroline Spelman (Conservative) on Thursday, 7 June 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 11 June 2007. It was answered by Baroness Hodge of Barking (Labour) on Wednesday, 27 June 2007 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

South East Development Agency: Chelsea Flower Show

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what expenditure the South East England Development Agency has undertaken in relation to the Chelsea Flower Show in each of the last three years.

Answer: The RDA is responsible for decisions on expenditure. In 2007 South East England Development Agency spent £88,000 at Chelsea Flower Show. This expenditure included a garden in the lifelong learning section to showcase new scientific and innovative uses of plants. This was done in partnership with South East agricultural colleges and they received a gold medal for plants with industrial uses. Investment in 2006 was £10,800 which part sponsored two gardens which highlighted the importance of the horticulture sector in industry and sustainable development. They did not invest in the show in 2005.

Secondary information