§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister for the Civil Service, in the light of the growing practice of Departments replying to parliamentary questions that the information requested can be provided only at disproportionate time and cost, whether he will give a detailed explanation of the basis upon which such replies are given ; what is classified as disproportionate costs and time; and whether this applies to questions which are sponsored by Ministers.
§ Mr. St. John-StevasI have been asked to reply.
Guidance to officials requires them to draw to Ministers' attention any questions which would cost more than £50 to answer in full. It is for each Minister to decide in the circumstances of each case whether the cost would be disproportionate.