Letter: Museum parties

Sir: The British Museum has never "announced plans for fancy dress evenings" in the galleries ("Smith refuses to return the Elgin Marbles", 23 November). As part of the enterprise culture, however, corporate entertainment continues to provide an invaluable source of income for museums and galleries everywhere, and is also a recognised means of introduction to potential benefactors. Strict guidelines are always applied to such events which preclude inappropriate activities.

ANDREW HAMILTON

The British Museum

London WC1