§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will give details of the meetings he has had with representatives of the staff at HMSO about the Government's plans for the privatisation of HMSO; and if he will make a statement. [20655]
The Deputy Prime MinisterMy right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster is responsible for the sale of HMSO. He gave details of the meetings he has had with HMSO staff, in his answer to the hon. Member for Coventry, South-East (Mr. Cunningham) on 4 December,Official Report, column 33. Since then, my right hon. Friend has held a further meeting with national and local trade union representatives.
The Government are committed to ensuring that staff are treated fairly during the privatisation of HMSO, and that their legal rights are fully respected. My colleagues and officials will maintain contact with staff throughout the process, and remain willing to hold further meetings as necessary.