§ Dr. Goodson-WickesTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what progress has been made in the revision of the code of practice on access to Government information. [11012]
§ Mr. FreemanThe revised code of practice on access to Government information and its associated guidance on interpretation have today been published. The changes made to both documents include a number which result from recommendations made in recent reports by the Public Service Committee and the Select Committee on the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration. I am grateful to both Committees for their helpful contributions and believe that the revised code and guidance are improved as a result.
I have also today published the revised "Departmental Evidence and Response to Select Committees" which now includes the code of practice on access to Government information as the clear, recognised minimum standard for providing information to Parliament in evidence given to Select Committees.
In so far as the requirements of these documents differ from those in their earlier versions, Government Departments have been asked to ensure implementation from 1 February.
189WThese revised documents represent a further development of this Government's policy of openness.
I am placing copies of all three documents in the Library of the House. In addition, I have already recently placed in the Library draft versions of all these documents highlighting the changes between the original and revised documents.