HC Deb 19 March 1990 vol 169 c440W
Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Lord President of the Council if he will issue guidance indicating under what circumstances civil servants in the Official Box can advise and offer briefings to Back-Bench Members during the course of a debate; and if he will make a statement.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

It is the function of civil servants in the Official Box to advise Ministers.