HC Deb 26 February 2001 vol 363 c495W
Mr. Clappison

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what role will be played by(a) the Prime Minister, (b) ministers, (c) Special Advisers and (d) the Chief Press Secretary in relation to the Strategic Communications Unit in the period following the calling of a general election. [150240]

Marjorie Mowlam

The activities of Government during an Election period are undertaken in line with the requirements of "the Ministerial Code", "the Civil Service Code", "the Model Contract for Special Advisers", and the additional Election Guidance that is routinely issued to all civil servants once an Election has been called. The Prime Minister's Chief Press Secretary has already made it clear that he will resign as soon as an Election is called.

Mr. Clappison

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what guidance is given to the Strategic Communications Unit relating to information concerning the policies of Opposition parties. [150237]

Marjorie Mowlam

I refer the hon. Member to my answer to the hon. Member for Truro and St. Austell (Mr. Taylor) on 11 December 2000,Official Report, column 47W.