§ 33. Mr. LidingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to ensure that Scottish Office Ministers regularly attend meetings of the EC Council of Ministers. [15818]
§ Mr. Michael ForsythScottish Office Ministers attend Council meetings as part of the UK delegation as and when matters relevant to my responsibilities are discussed. I also attend Cabinet Committee meetings to discuss UK policy on European Union issues. This enables me to ensure that any specific Scottish points are considered within the context of overall UK policy and to decide which Council meetings require ministerial attendance.