Oral Answers to Questions

Louie French Excerpts

Thursday 27th April 2023 Commons Chamber

[Julia Lopez]

The hon. Gentleman will be aware that the appointment of Richard Sharp is the subject of an Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments report. We do not control the timetable for that, but it will hopefully shed some light on the appointment. I appreciate the hon. Gentleman raising concerns about the propriety of the appointment. We in DCMS believe that we ran that appointment to the letter and, as he will know as a member of the Select Committee, it was also endorsed by the Committee.

[Mr Louie French (Old Bexley and Sidcup) (Con)]

2. What steps her Department is taking to encourage community participation in the celebration of the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

[Nickie Aiken (Cities of London and Westminster) (Con)]

10. What steps her Department is taking to encourage community participation in the celebration of the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

[Mr French]

I welcome the Government’s efforts to support this historic event across the UK, and I am deeply honoured to represent Old Bexley and Sidcup, which was recently voted the most patriotic constituency in the country. Will my right hon. and learned Friend join me in encouraging local children to enter my free “A Card for the King” competition, and in thanking all the residents, businesses and volunteers in Bexley who have arranged more than 95 street parties and a range of community events to celebrate the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III?

[Lucy Frazer]

I encourage as many people as possible to take part in my hon. Friend’s competition, and I congratulate his constituency. I thank the residents, businesses and volunteers who are truly embodying the spirit of the coronation. I am delighted to hear that so many events will take place, with communities coming together for street parties for the coronation. I hope that all the residents of Old Bexley and Sidcup have a great celebration.