HL Deb 11 March 1996 vol 570 cc50-1WA
Lord Kennet

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they agree with the view expressed in the House of Commons on 15th February, (HC Deb., col 1160), that civil servants, including retired civil servants, remain subject to ministerial instructions; and, if so, whether they consider that this provision applies to retired civil servants working in United States defence firms.

Earl Howe

Retired civil servants are no longer subject to direct ministerial instruction. They are, however, still under a duty of confidentiality in relation to official information obtained during their employment unless formally released from it by the relevant Minister.