§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what is the job description of her special adviser Mr. John Bercow; how many other applicants applied for the post; what is his salary and length of service contract; and if she will make a statement. [39517]
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyWith the approval of the Prime Minister, and after interviewing a number of candidates, I appointed Mr. Bercow personally as my special adviser. For special advisers' roles and salary arrangements, I refer the hon. Member to the reply that my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister gave to the hon. Member for Paisley, South (Mr. McMaster) on 28 February 1995, at columns484–85. The appointments of special advisers terminate in the circumstances set out in the model appointment letter for special advisers. A copy is in the Library.