HC Deb 10 April 1984 vol 58 cc156-7W
Mr. Gordon Brown

asked the Prime Minister (1) whether her efficiency adviser Sir Robin Ibbs has the status of a temporary civil servant;

(2) what are the terms and conditions of appointment, including the salary paid, of her adviser on efficiency Sir Robin Ibbs;

(3) if she will publish the formal exchange of letters which preceded the appointment of Sir Robin Ibbs as her adviser on efficiency.

The Prime Minister

Sir Robin Ibbs is not a civil servant. His appointment as my adviser on efficiency is on a part-time basis, and is unpaid. It would not be appropriate to publish the exchange of letters on appointment.

Mr. Gordon Brown

asked the Prime Minister (1) what procedures were adopted for vetting the shareholdings of Sir Robin Ibbs, her efficiency adviser, under paragraph 9874 of the Civil Service code of conduct;

(2) whether her special adviser on efficiency Sir Robin Ibbs has beens asked to divest himself of any of his directorships or shareholdings;

(3) if she will list all the commercial interests of her adviser on efficiency, Sir Robin Ibbs.

The Prime Minister

The provisions of the Civil Service code regarding shareholdings are not appropriate in this case. No conflict arises between Sir Robin Ibbs' duties as efficiency adviser and his private and commercial interests.

Mr. Gordon Brown

asked the Prime Minister whether her efficiency adviser Sir Robin Ibbs has access to commercial information regarded as confidential.

The Prime Minister

No.