§ 13. Mr. Ridleyasked the Minister of Technology what steps he takes in his Department to ensure that Parliamentary Questions put to him by hon. Members are answered on the day for which they are set down for answer; and if he is satisfied that the existing procedures are adequate.
§ Mr. CousinsIn general, I am satisfied with the procedures in my Department for dealing with Parliamentary Questions. In one particular case in which the hon. Member was concerned, I have already sent him an explanation and my apologies.
§ Mr. RidleyCan the right hon. Gentleman say how it came to be that a Question for Written Answer on 4th March was not answered until 5th April? Can he say what purposive planning and what technological revolutions he is undertaking in his own Ministry to make sure that this does not happen again?
§ Mr. CousinsI find this question rather strange, as a written explanation and personal apology have already been addressed to the hon. Member concerned.