HC Deb 06 March 1996 vol 273 cc250-1W
Mr. Byers

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster which serving civil servants in his Department are presently directors of companies; and if he will indicate for each(a) the name of the company concerned and (b) if the annual remuneration was (i) £1 to £5,000, (ii) £5,000 to £10,000 and (c) above £10,000. [18144]

Mr. Freeman

Staff in the Departments and agencies for which I am responsible, and other areas which fall to the Cabinet Office vote, are required to declare any business interest, such as directorships, which might conflict with their oficial duties and to comply with any subsequent instructions regarding the retention, disposal and management of such interests. It is not my practice to disclose information on the personal interests of officials.

Non-executive directorships for civil servants for developmental reasons or on an ex officio basis are encouraged under a Government-sponsored scheme. They provide an opportunity for interchange between the civil service and outside organisations, particularly with the private sector. At present, however, no officials of the Cabinet Office hold directorships under this scheme.

Mr. Byers

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister which serving civil servants in his Department are presently directors of companies; and if he will indicate for each(a) the name of the company concerned and (b) if the annual remuneration was (i) £1 to £5,000, (ii) £5,000 to £10,000 and (c) above £10,000. [18145]

The Deputy Prime Minister

For these purposes, my office forms part of the Cabinet Office. I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster today.