§ Lord Melchettasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether staff employed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in particular advisory staff operating in the field, always report to the police all suspected cases of criminal activity that they come across while undertaking their official duties.
The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Earl Ferrers)All officers of my Ministry, including those operating in the field, are aware of the need to be vigilant for any suspected criminal activity which they may come across in the course of their official duties. When related to the functions for which the Ministry has a responsibility, such activity is reported to the Ministry. In other cases, officers are expected to act in the same way as any other responsible citizen and report the matter to the police.
House adjourned at five minutes before eleven o'clock.