HC Deb 04 March 1998 vol 307 cc1045-6
8. Mr. Dalyell

What representations he has received on his freedom of information White Paper in relation to whistleblower activities. [30871]

Dr. David Clark

I met my hon. Friend and the hon. Member for Aldridge-Brownhills (Mr. Shepherd) on 22 January. In addition, a small number of responses received to the White Paper on freedom of information have raised issues concerned with whistleblowing.

As the House will know, the Public Interest Disclosure Bill is about safeguarding the interests of employees who make unauthorised disclosures in very specific circumstances and it has the support of the Government.

Mr. Dalyell

I thank my right hon. Friend for the manner in which he and his senior officials entered into dialogue with us on 22 January. Does this help legitimate deep throats?

Dr. Clark

Yes.

Rev. Martin Smyth

I welcome the right hon. Gentleman's response, but does he share my concern that an attitude still seems to prevail among some senior civil servants that frowns on any civil servants speaking—even as a citizen—to their Member of Parliament and sharing their concerns about what is happening?

Dr. Clark

I said earlier that I believe that it is time to build bridges between Whitehall and Westminster. It is my intention to bring forward certain suggestions which will improve standards and contact between Members of Parliament and civil servants.

Mr. Paterson

Following consultation and legislation, would the right hon. Gentleman like to see more freedom of information established in this country than currently prevails in the United States of America?

Dr. Clark

It is widely acknowledged that the freedom of information White Paper marks the next stage of freedom legislation throughout the world. In that sense, I believe that it will offer a much better opportunity for the people of Britain to find out information that may relate to themselves and which they may want. I believe that that will make a huge difference to the political culture of Britain and that it will bring the government of our country closer to our citizens.