§ 2.53 p.m.
Baroness WARD of NORTH TYNESIDEMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the second Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will give an assurance that in future letters addressed to Ministers and Government Departments on realistic matters will be answered.
§ The LORD PRIVY SEAL (Lord Shepherd)My Lords, I am happy to do so, since it is already the Government's practice. But if the noble Baroness has any particular case in mind where this may not have been done, and if she will kindly let me have details, I shall certainly look into it.
Baroness WARD of NORTH TYNESIDEMy Lords, I thank the noble Lord for that Answer. Is he aware that I believe, having been 38 years in another place—and while not blaming one Government or another—that it is very well-known that many letters are not answered, partly, presumably, because they are overlooked, and partly, probably, by design? May I ask whether he would be kind enough to see that a special piece of knowledge is sent around to every Department to ensure that letters will be answered, as that would be in favour of a proper democratic system?
§ Lord SHEPHERDMy Lords, I have not had the same length of experience in Parliament as has the noble Baroness, nor perhaps have I suffered in the same way that she has done. I always found that letters I sent to Ministers in the previous Administration were answered; although it is true that it was perhaps after a period of time. But one must recognise that often one is writing letters on matters of great complexity so careful examination is required before the Minister can reply, which therefore takes time. It may be true, too, that letters occassionally get lost; I do not believe by design. But if the noble Baroness has a point—if she has any letters that are outstanding and in respect of which she is now awaiting answers—then if she will let me know I will see that she gets an answer.
§ Lord SHEPHERDMy Lords, having reproved one of my colleagues for making a suggestion yesterday, may I reprove the noble Baroness that this is not an occasion to make a point but to ask a question.
§ Baroness GAITSKELLMy Lords, is it not very unfair to suggest that either Ministers or Departments do not answer letters; and does not that go for either Conservative or Labour Governments? When I became a Member of this House, people began writing to me about their problems and I have been amazed at the courtesy, the care and the detailed information that has been given in trying to deal with these problems; and sometimes in dealing with them satisfactorily.
§ Lord SHEPHERDMy Lords, I am most grateful to the noble Baroness, and no doubt as a consequence of her question to me her letters will in future be answered with even greater expedition than in the past.