HC Deb 15 June 1995 vol 261 cc596-7W
Mr. Foulkes

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list all areas within(a) his Department, (b) agencies under his Department's control and (c) organisations for which he has ministerial responsibility to which Crown immunity applies; what consideration he has given to removing this; and if he will make a statement. [28653]

Mr. Freeman

An Act of Parliament is presumed not to bind the Crown unless the contrary intention is clearly stated, or there is a necessary implication that the Crown is to be bound. Crown immunity is being progressively reduced, as legislative opportunities arise. However, even in circumstances where the Crown is not bound by legislation, it is Government policy that it should comply as though the requirements apply to it, wherever appropriate.

To list all areas in which Crown immunity may apply would involve disproportionate cost.

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