§ Norman LambTo ask the Prime Minister on how many occasions Lord Birt has travelled by train since his appointment to the Forward Strategy Unit. [34639]
§ The Prime MinisterI refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Lewes (Norman Baker) on 22 January 2002,Official Report, columns 723-24W.
§ Norman LambTo ask the Prime Minister what experience Lord Birt has in relation to rail transport. [34789]
§ The Prime MinisterI refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Lewes (Norman Baker) on 16 January 2002,Official Report, column 298W.
§ Norman BakerTo ask the Prime Minister if he will take steps to ensure that Lord Birt gives oral evidence to the Select Committees when requested. [34145]
§ The Prime MinisterMinisters are directly accountable to the House for their decisions and actions. It is proper for them to express a preference as to who 77W should explain their policies and what action is being taken in the House. This is in line with the practice of successive Governments. There has been no change to the rules.
§ Norman BakerTo ask the Prime Minister what the cost is of the offices used by Lord Bill at 45 Old Bond street. [34146]
§ The Prime MinisterThere are no costs to the public purse.