HC Deb 18 May 2004 vol 421 cc877-8W
Norman Baker

To ask the Prime Minister whether section 6 of the Ministerial Code permits individuals other than special advisers to use Government property to undertake manifesto preparation work for New Labour. [174083]

The Prime Minister

The use of Government property is undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the Ministerial Code, the Civil service Code and the Code of Conduct for Special Advisers.

Norman Baker

To ask the Prime Minister on how many occasions in each year since 1 May 1997 spouses or partners of Ministers travelled(a) within the United Kingdom and (b) overseas at public expense under the provisions of section 87 of the Ministerial Code; and what the total cost of such expenses was in each year. [174084]

The Prime Minister

The information requested is not held centrally. The cost of spouses or partners accompanying Ministers on overseas visits is included in the overall cost of Minister's visits overseas which is published on an annual basis. The cost of visits from 1 April 2003 to 31 March 2004 is currently being collated and will be published in the normal way before the summer recess. Copies for previous years are available in the Library of the House.

Norman Baker

To ask the Prime Minister whether the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs sought his approval for her recent absences overseas in accordance with section 7, paragraph 73 of the Ministerial Code; and if he will make a statement. [174085]

The Prime Minister

Ministerial travel complies with the requirements of the Ministerial Code and Travel by Ministers.

Norman Baker

To ask the Prime Minister how he plans to apply section 90 of the Ministerial Code of Conduct to the recent offer by the US authorities of a decoration. [174086]

The Prime Minister

As I made clear to the hon. Member on 10 July 2003,Official Report, columns 933–34W, the Ministerial Code is a code of conduct and guidance on procedures for Ministers. Any offer of a decoration from a foreign state is considered in light of this guidance.