HL Deb 05 February 1998 vol 585 c129WA
Lord Tebbit

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there is a minimum period for which a sexual relationship with a Minister must have lasted for the person concerned to be granted the status of "partner" with the entitlement to benefits hitherto confined to spouses. [HL335]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey:

The principle governing who may accompany a Minister on overseas travel remains unchanged: it must be on official business, clearly in the public interest and with the Prime Minister's prior approval. There are no other criteria.