HC Deb 13 July 1988 vol 137 cc278-9W
Mr. Tim Smith

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on how many occasions his Department has sought the opinion of independent counsel since 1979; and if he will list the subjects concerned.

Mr. Butcher

The information is not readily available and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. Furthermore, the details of any subjects upon which the opinion of independent counsel has been sought by the solicitor to the Department since 1979 are confidential, and therefore could not be disclosed.