§ Mr. JohnTo ask the Prime Minister if she will set out the guidelines under which departmental civil servants are allowed to conduct press conferences or press briefings upon politically sensitive matters.
§ The Prime MinisterCivil servants are advised that in dealing with the media they must act on the advice of their Department's chief information officer who consults Ministers as necessary. Subject to this advice, officials may explain Government policy and give the factual background to it. They may also discuss the balance of consideration which led to a choice of policy. They must not trespass on the responsibilities of Ministers, and at all times they should preserve the political neutrality of the Civil Service. Press conferences or briefings on party political matters should be given only by Ministers.