HC Deb 09 November 1979 vol 973 cc373-4W
Mr. Rooker

asked the Prime Minister if she will list those topics on which it is not her practice to answer parliamentary questions; and if she will list any changes in the practice of her Department since 3 May.

The Prime Minister

It is not possible to give a definitive and exhaustive list of questions relating to my responsibilities which I might decline to answer, but the subjects on which I follow the practice of my predecessors in this regard include security matters, telephone interception, detailed arrangements for the conduct of Government business, and lists of past and future engagements. I have, however, given details of the Standing Committees of the Cabinet, which were set out in my reply to the hon. Member for Newcastle upon Tyne, East (Mr. Thomas) on 24 May.

Mr. Rooker

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will list, in respect of his various responsibilities, those topics on which it is not his practice to answer parliamentary questions; and if he will list any changes in the practice of his Department since 3 May.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

It is not possible to provide a definitive and exhaustive list of questions which I might exceptionally decline to answer on grounds other than cost. I will continue to consider each question on its merits, but, for example,

Mr. Stanley

I shall be making proposals about local authority mortgage interest rates in the forthcoming Housing Bill.