Backpackers Guide to London
Downing Street
Backpackers' Guide to London's Tourist Information | Backpackers' Guide to London Tourist Attractions | Backpackers' Guide to London's Historical Attractions | Backpackers' Guide to Shopping in London | Backpackers' Guide to Sport in London | Backpackers' Guide to Entertainment in London | Backpackers' Guide to Food in London | Backpackers' Guide to London Museums Numbers 10 and 11 Downing Street has been the centre of UK government for hundreds of years, as the official residences of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. While the Prime Minister usually occupies Number 10, and Chancellor taking Number 11, current leaders Tony Blair and Gordon Brown have chosen to switch because of personal circumstances. Blair opted to take the larger home, because of his family, while Brown (who was single when he assumed his post) agreed to take the smaller one. Number 10 Downing Street is actually made up of two houses that were joined when the property became an official government residence. It was the official accommodation given to Sir Robert Walpole by King George II on behalf of the nation and the crown. He accepted it on the condition that the gift is not to be treated as a personal one but rather as a gift to the incumbent First Lord of the Treasury, thus enabling ownership to be passed to each person who assumes the position. This title is traditionally held by the Prime Minister. It has since been called home by at least 50 Prime Ministers and their families. It is the venue for receiving foreign dignitaries and for holding cabinet meetings, as well as a workplace for many of the support staff of the Prime Minister. The office of the Prime Minister is headed by a chief of staff with a group of career civil servants and special advisors. Functions are also frequently held here, and a social team takes over all entertainment plans. The building also houses a particularly excellent collection of British Art on temporary loan from the Government Art Collection. Not all Prime Ministers however, chose to live in Number 10, preferring their own personal homes which may have grander and more spacious. During the 18th and 19th centuries, 10 Downing Street was seen as an unimpressive building not befitting the stature of the occupant. The Marquis of Salisbury was the last Prime Minister not to have his accommodation at Number 10. Downing Street is located at the edge of the Palace site and visitors can reach it by bus, rail or the Tube.
Introduction
Features
Getting There
Ashlee House, 261-265 Grays Inn Road, London WC1X 8QT, England
Tel: +44 (0)20 7833 9400 Fax: +44 (0)20 7833 9677
