HC Deb 28 October 1993 vol 230 cc781-2W
Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the Welsh Development Agency concerning the implementation of the recommendations of the Committee of Public Accounts in relation to full recovery from employees of costs incurred through excess private mileage.

Mr. Redwood

I take very seriously the criticisms of the Public Accounts Committe. The Goverment's response to its report makes it clear that there should be contributions by individuals to cover the cost of private use. The agency has recognised this and has ensured that the chief executive and other senior executives make appropriate contributions.

Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the Welsh Development Agency concerning the recommendations in Sir John Caines' report concerning(a) common directorships held by board members and (b) the apppointment of board members involved in construction and property development; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Redwood

I myself have had none. The WDA has received a copy of the Caines report and would have seen my statement to the House on 19 October.

Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he expects implementation of the recommendations of the quinquennial financial management and policy review of the Welsh Development Agency 1991–92, that there should be a management statement and new financial guidelines defining delegation of financial authority; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Redwood

A management statement is in place and the financial guidelines are being revised.

Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the Welsh Development Agency concerning revisions to the employee handbook(a) in respect of procedures for dealing with conflicts of interest involving employees' families and close personal friends and (b) other respects; what proposals for such revisions have been submitted to him; and when he expects to complete the approval process of such revisions.

Mr. Redwood

None. I understand that the board of the agency is currently considering the revised employee handbook. I expect to see any proposals for changes to terms and conditions when the board has completed its deliberations.

Mr. Morgan

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the Welsh Development Agency in relation to the recommendations in Sir John Caines' report to withdraw the facility for WDA staff to sell their cars into the executive car-leasing scheme.

Mr. Redwood

I myself have had no discussions with the WDA. I refer the hon. Member to the agency's response to Sir John Caines' report, a copy of which has been placed in the Library of the House.