§ Mrs. FyfeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland on how many occasions since 18 November he has not answered, other than with a holding answer, a parliamentary question for written answer on a named day within 10 days of it being tabled; on what subjects; and what is his normal length of time for replying to hon. Members following a holding answer to their written questions for named days.
§ Mr. LangAs at 15 December there have been 217 questions tabled for written answer on a named day since 18 November of which 31 did not receive a substantive reply within 10 working days. The questions covered the subjects of the health service, forestry, transport issues and local authority matters. My ministerial colleagues and I ensure that wherever possible all questions receive substantive replies within the timescale set down by the House authorities.