HC Deb 07 February 1994 vol 237 cc90-1W
Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he received a copy of the curriculum vitae of the chair of the Welsh Development Agency before making the appointment; and if he will place a copy in the Library.

Mr. Redwood

I did not read the chairman's curriculum vitae. Such documents are confidential and not suitable for placing in the Library of the House. I read a letter and memorandum about Mr. Rowe-Beddoe's career and suitability for the job before asking to see him. I did not discuss politics when I met him, with officials present. The CV was received in the Welsh Office, did include on it on page 2 a reference to the Conservative party, but this was not repeated in the materials I read before confirming the appointment.

Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he first considered the curriculum vitae submitted by Mr. David Rowe-Beddoe in support of his application for the post of chairman of the Welsh Development Agency.

Mr. Redwood

My Department provided details about Mr. Rowe-Beddoe's career. I had no need to consider the curriculum vitae.

Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many applicants for the post of chairman of the Welsh Development Agency were personally interviewed by(a) himself and (b) his immediate predecessor as Secretary of State.

Mr. Redwood

I met the selected candidate; officials sifted CVs of over 80; my predecessor interviewed six.

Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he first became aware that Mr. David Rowe-Beddoe, the person he appointed as chair of the Welsh Development Agency had been, immediately prior to that appointment, the chairman of the Monte Carlo branch of Conservatives Abroad.

Mr. Redwood

Recently. Mr. Rowe-Beddoe was appointed because of his business skills. His political associations were not a consideration.

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