§ Mr. Rookerasked the Lord President of the Council if he will list those topics on which it is not his practice to answer parliamentary Questions; and if he will list any changes in practice since 1972, indicating in each case the date on which the change was made and the relevant reference in the Official Report.
§ Mr. FootIt is not possible to provide a definitive and exhaustive list of Questions which I might exceptionally decline to answer on grounds other than cost. Each Question will continue to be considered on its merits, but, by way of example, Questions on relations between the political parties, the pay and conditions of individual members of the staff of this House, and the pay, allowances and pensions of individual Members or former Members would fall into this category.
§ Mr. Rookerasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will list those topics on which it is not his practice to answer parliamentary Questions; and if he will list any changes in practice since 1972, indicating in each case the date on which the change was made and the relevant reference in the Official Report.
§ Mr. LeverI answer all Questions that fall within my current area of ministerial responsibility, but not those relating to details of future engagements. There has been no change in this practice since 1972.