Written Answers of 2 May 1996

DUCHY OF LANCASTER

  Risk Assessments
  Mr. Lidington
  To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will set out the arrangements for Departments to carry out risk assessments on new regulatory proposals. [28165]

  Mr. Freeman
  I am today publishing a new guidance booklet on regulatory appraisal incorporating risk assessment and am arranging for copies to be placed in the House Library. The new guide requires risk assessments to be carried out on all proposed regulations affecting business. As part of the regulatory appraisal procedure set out in the guide, Ministers will have to receive a risk assessment before deciding whether to introduce new regulations. Ministers must personally certify that they have read both the risk assessment and a compliance cost assessment in order to satisfy themselves that the benefits of the regulation justify its costs.

DEFENCE

  Private Finance Initiative
  Ms Janet Anderson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the revenue spending estimated by his Department in connection with the private financial initiative for(a) 1995–96, (b) 1996–97 and (c) 1997–98. [26625]

  Mr. Arbuthnot
  Spending by my Department on private finance initiative projects is predicted to be in the order of £10 million in 1996–97 and £20 million in 1997–98. No expenditure was incurred in 1995–96. This does not include staff costs and other departmental overheads associated with PFI projects.

  Chemical and Biological Defence Establishment
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what research has been carried out by the Chemical and Biological Defence Establishment at Porton Down since 1990 into the cocktail of anti-nerve agents given to British Gulf war soldiers. [27647]

  Mr. Arbuthnot
  This is a matter for the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency under its framework document. I have asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Member.
  576
  Letter from John Chisholm to Dr. David Clark, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question asking about research at the Chemical and Biological Defence Establishment at Porton Down since 1990 into the cocktail of anti-nerve agents given to British Gulf War soldiers. The Chemical & Biological Sector at Porton Down is now part of the Protection and Life Sciences Division of Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) of which I am the Chief Executive.
  The only anti-nerve agent drug given to British service personnel during the Gulf conflict was the nerve agent pre-treatment set (NAPS) containing pyridostigmine. This was administered as a pre-treatment to minimise the impact of exposure to nerve agents.
  In addition to the pre-treatment the post-poisoning therapy contained in self injector devices (Combopers) was issued to service personnel but was not administered. This therapy contains the drugs atropine, pralidoxime mesylate and Avizafone. The auto-injector is designed to be administered by the soldier himself or a comrade in the event that the individual shows the signs and symptoms of nerve agent poisoning.
  Since 1990 the Chemical and Biological Defence Sector at Porton Down has carried out research involving the use of in-service medical countermeasures for nerve agent poisoning in two main areas. A study has been conducted in human volunteers to investigate single fibre electro myography (SFEMG) during and following the administration of pyridostigmine for a period of eight weeks. The individuals involved took NAPS tablets as directed at 8 hourly intervals for 8 weeks. These studies showed a very small change in the SFEMG during the administration which had no clinical significance. The SFEMG returned to the values determined prior to taking the NAPS tablets within seven days of termination of the administration of NAPS.
  In the second type of study CBD Sector has placed extra mural research contracts with the Universities of Aston and Birmingham. The work has involved fundamental studies on antichloline sterases and included an examination of the effects of pyridostigmine. The work was conducted using rodent models and all the results will be reported in the open literature.
  In addition to these two areas of work the in-service medical countermeasures have been used in animal studies as a positive control in the research being carried out to develop improved medical countermeasures against nerve agent poisoning.
  I hope this information is helpful.

  Gulf War Syndrome
  Mr. Alfred Morris
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what study his Department has made of the findings of recent research in the United States into the relationship between the multiple prescribing and use of drugs and subsequent unexplained illnesses among service men and women who served in the Gulf war; what further action he is taking; and if he will make a statement. [26895]

  Mr. Soames
  The research relating to possible interaction between drugs and chemicals used in the Gulf war, undertaken by Duke university, North Carolina, has not yet been published. The research team's report on its findings will be carefully considered by my Department when it becomes available.

  "Statement on the Defence Estimates"
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he plans to publish the "Statement on the Defence Estimates 1996". [27648]

  Mr. Soames
  The 1996 "Statement on the Defence Estimates", Cm 3223, was published yesterday.

  Soviet Submarines
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what records his Department holds of the Soviet November class submarine carrying nuclear missiles which sank near Land's End in 1970; what measures his Department has taken to monitor the state of the missiles; what assessment he has made of the risks of radiation escaping from the submarine; and if he will make a statement. [27663]

  Mr. Soames
  The Soviet November class submarine lost in international waters outside the western approaches, on 12 April 1970, sank in deep water. It is assessed that the risk of radiation escaping from the submarine is minimal, and results from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food's monitoring programme have shown no indication of contamination from this accident.

  Dr. Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what records his Department maintains of Soviet Union submarines which have sunk off the British coast over the last 30 years. [27662]

  Mr. Soames
  No Soviet Union submarines have sunk near the British coast.

  Mr. Foulkes
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what reports he has evaluated about the Soviet November class submarine which sank in the western approaches to the United Kingdom on 12 April 1970; what action he has taken in relation to safety of naval vessels sailing in the vicinity; what representations have been made to the Soviet and Russian authorities in relation to compensation; what further action he proposes to take to protect United Kingdom interests; and if he will make a statement. [26708]

  Mr. Soames
  [holding answer 25 April 1996]: The Soviet November class submarine lost in international waters outside the western approaches on 12 April 1970 sank in deep water and is not considered to be a hazard to vessels. This tragic loss is not a basis upon which compensation has been sought from Soviet or Russian authorities. It is assessed that the risk of radiation escaping from the submarine is minimal, and results from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food monitoring programme have shown no indication of contamination from this accident.

  Territorial Army
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many training days per year members of the Territorial Army have to serve in order to received their annual bounty. [27651]

  Mr. Soames
  Most members of the Territorial Army are required to complete 15 days camp training and 12 days out-of-camp training to qualify for bounty. Members of specialist units which recruit nationwide, and of certain pools of manpower, must complete 15 days camp training and four days out-of-camp training. A lower training obligation is available, with the consent of the commanding officer, to individuals whose personal or employment circumstances make it difficult for them to meet the full obligation. Special rules apply to the officers training corps and in certain other cases.
  578
  Dr. Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much call-out gratuity will be paid to members of the Territorial Army on their return from Bosnia. [27655]

  Mr. Soames
  No call-out gratuity will be paid to members of the Territorial Army on their return from Bosnia. Call-out gratuity is a lump sum of £345 which is paid on mobilisation to every reservist called out for service in support of operations in Bosnia.

  Dr. Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many members of the Territorial Army called up for service in Bosnia in 1995 had not completed their annual training quota at the time of the call-up; if those personnel who had not yet completed their annual training quota were eligible for their annual bounty; and if he will make a statement. [27650]

  Mr. Soames
  Information on the level of training undertaken by each member of the Territorial Army before his or her call out in support of the peace implementation force is not immediately available. However, it is believed that the great majority would have attend annual camp, and that many would also have completed the required out of camp training. Those who had not done so were not eligible for bounty, as is explicitly provided in TA regulations.

  Dr. Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if service on operational duties for members of the Territorial Army called up for service in Bosnia qualifies in lieu of the annual quota of training days required for an annual bounty; and if he will make a statement. [27652]

  Mr. Soames
  Reservists called out for permanent service receive pay at the full regular rate. Under current regulations, such service does not count towards annual bounty, which is earned through attendance at training. however, it has been agreed that members of the Territorial Army may count a period of called-out service in support of the peace implementation force in Bosnia in lieu of annual camp in the current training year or, in certain circumstances, the next one. It will be necessary for individuals to complete the remainder of their annual training before they qualify for bounty. These circumstances are being taken into account as the rules governing the payment of bounty are reviewed in the light of changes to be introduced by the Reserve Forces Bill.

  Dr. Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if members of the Territorial Army called up for service in Bosnia will be required to relinquish their service kit on completion of their service; what provisions have been made to ensure that they have civilian clothes to change into and travelling bags; and if he will make a statement. [27654]

  Mr. Soames
  Members of the Territorial Army returning from Bosnia on completion of their period of permanent service will be required, at the demobilisation centre, to hand in all extra items of clothing and equipment issued to them specifically for service in Bosnia. They will retain their standard kit for future use when training with their unit. On mobilisation, reservists were instructed to pack a set of civilian clothes, and they will be available to be worn after demobilisation. All reservists will be permitted to retain their travelling bags in order to carry their belongings home.

  Atomic Weapons Establishment, Llanishen
  Mr. Morgan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 29 April,Official Report, column 397, if he will give his current estimate of the time to be taken in thoroughly decommissioning the AWE Llanishen site; when the process is due to start; and if he will make a statement. [27827]

  Mr. Arbuthnot
  The process will start once current activities have ceased at the Llanishen site in 1997. The work will be undertaken in a careful and progressive manner and in conformity with all relevant guidelines and legislation and the requirements of the regulatory bodies. It is impossible to be precise as to duration, but the whole process will inevitably take some years.

  Departmental Data
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if the police and security databases held by his Department have changed their procedures as a result of investigations by the Data Protection Registrar. [27656]

  Mr. Soames
  No changes have been made to procedures followed by the military police and security forces in the use of their databases as the result of investigations by the Data Protection Registrar. My Department will be glad to receive and comply with any advice proffered as the result of this or any other investigation.

  Dr. Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what advice he has received from the Data Protection Registrar concerning his Department's handling of data under the Data Protection Act 1988. [27657]

  Mr. Soames
  The Office of the Data Protection Registrar has yet to advise MOD of the findings of its investigation which concluded in August 1995. As of 1 May 1996, no advice other than that which has been specifically requested by the MOD Data Protection Office to meet particular circumstances has been received from the Office of the Data Protection Registrar.

  Joint Service Command and Staff College
  Mr. Anthony Coombs
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what was the outcome of the consultation process regarding the interim arrangements for the Joint Service Command and Staff college; and if he will make a statement. [28292]

  Mr. Soames
  The consultation process on the interim arrangements for the Joint Service command and Staff college has been completed. A number of responses have been received, but none raised any new or major issues that might call the proposals into question. Those issues that were raised will be taken carefully into account in future work.

  This work remains on schedule for the new Joint Service Command and Staff college to open at Bracknell in September 1997 and immediate next steps include formal planning consultation with the local authority. In the longer term it remains our intention to dispose of the Bracknell site by the end of 1999, by which time the new college should be well established at its permanent site.

PRIME MINISTER

  Engagements
  Sir Peter Tapsell
  To ask the Prime Minister if he will list his official engagements for Thursday 2 May. [26609]

  Mr. Harry Greenway
  To ask the Prime Minister if he will list his official engagements for Thursday 2 May. [26610]

  The Prime Minister
  This morning, I presided at a meeting of the Cabinet and had meetings with ministerial colleagues and others. In addition to my duties in the House, I shall be having further meetings later today.

TRANSPORT

  Railway Lands (London)
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate he has made of the development value of the railway lands at King's Cross and Stratford which have been transferred to London and Continental and are not required for the channel tunnel rail link. [27860]

  Mr. Watts
  I refer the hon. Member to the answers I gave him on 14 March,Official Report, columns 720 and 721.

  Railtrack
  Mr. Austin Mitchell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if Railtrack shares left with the Government qualify for the special dividend payable from this year's profits. [27816]

  Mr. Watts
  Any Railtrack shares still held by the Government as at 4 September 1996 will qualify for the final dividend of 13.75p share in respect of the year ended 31 March 1996.

  Mr. Mitchell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) if he will list the bodies who have audited costs and liabilities for the route structure of Railtrack; and to what extent each of these bodies will be held responsible for errors in these figures; [27820]

  (2) what assessment (a) he and (b) his officials have made of the reports on maintenance costs of Railtrack from the Civil Engineering Design Group; [27818]

  (3) if the estimates of maintenance costs commissioned from CEDG and Atkins were commissioned for inclusion in the Pathfinder prospectus; [27815]

  (4) on what maintenance estimates the Atkins Comfort letter in the Railtrack Pathfinder prospectus was based; who supplied these figures; and what adjustments were made to them before Atkins issued its endorsement; [27819]

  (5) if he approved the maintenance estimate for the rail structure quoted in the pathfinder prospectus; [27793]

  (6) what communication he has had with W. S. Atkins about its estimate of the cost of maintenance of the rail network; and if he will publish the figures they supplied to his Department; [27798]
  581
  (7) if the cost estimates of maintenance for the rail network submitted by W. S. Atkins are those used in the Pathfinder Prospectus; [27822]

  (8) what were the maintenance estimates for the Railtrack route structure, submitted by (a) CEDG and (b) Atkins; how many reports on these figures were submitted by Atkins; whether all the Atkins reports were submitted to the regulator; and what the range of figures was in the different reports; [27787]

  (9) what were the 10 year maintenance costs for the railways estimated by (a) the Civil Engineering Design Group and (b) W. S. Atkins; [27823]

  (10) what steps he has taken to verify the maintenance figures for the route structure operated by Railtrack as given in the Pathfinder prospectus; [27788]

  (11) if his Department commissioned S. B. C. Warburg to check the maintenance estimates in the Pathfinder prospectus for the sale of Railtrack; [27803]

  (12) how many reports on maintenance costs for Railtrack were submitted to his Department by W. S. Atkins; for what reasons none of them were quoted in the Pathfinder prospectus; and how many were submitted to the regulator; [27801]

  (13) on what basis his Department concluded that the study of maintenance costs by W. S. Atkins is a more detailed and extensive survey than that produced by CEDG of York; [27794]

  (14) what assessment he has made of the maintenance estimates in respect of the rail network from (a) Civil Engineering Design Group and (b) W. S. Atkins; and what checking procedures were adopted by his Department. [27821]

  Mr. Watts
  I understand that CEDG was commissioned to inform directors of Railtrack as to expected future costs of maintaining and renewing certain of it assets. CEDG's report to Railtrack was produced over a short time scale; was based on an extrapolation of a small sample; used less sophisticated analytical techniques than those subsequently used by W. S. Atkins; and was based on assumptions about asset lives which were not in accordance with prudent management of the assets concerned. Its cost estimates were inconsistent with historical spend in this area. The report was rejected by Railtrack and, having regard to the matters above and the superseding work of W. S. Atkins, its contents were not regarded as material or appropriate information for inclusion in the Railtrack prospectus.

  W. S. Atkins, a firm of independent consultants, was subsequently engaged by Railtrack with the approval of my Department to report jointly to the Secretary of State and the directors of Railtrack and our respective financial advisers, to assist in the development of its asset maintenance plan—AMP—for track and route structures. This included an assessment of the policies, targets, bases and assumptions, methods and procedures used by Railtrack in arriving at the estimate of expenditure related to the AMP which is described in the prospectus. My Department received one report from W. S. Atkins which was the basis of W. S. Atkins' expert certificate set out in the prospectus. The report was not submitted to the Rail Regulator although in his conclusions on the future level of access charges he allowed Railtrack sufficient income
  582
  form its charges to enable it to maintain the existing capability of the rail network having regard to projections of Railtrack's future expenditure,. My right hon. Friend is satisfied, on the basis of due and careful enquiries made by my Department and Railtrack and our respective advisers that the estimates set out in the prospectus were prepared on a proper basis.

  Mr. Mitchell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what factors were taken into account in the estimate of the maintenance costs for the rail network in the Pathfinder prospectus. [27799]

  Mr. Watts
  All material factors were taken into account in the estimate of maintenance costs for the rail network and are described in the Railtrack prospectus.

  Mr. Mitchell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the work commissioned by his Department from Professor Tony O'Hagan of Nottingham university relating to research of W. S. Atkins on rail maintenance costs. [27802]

  Mr. Watts
  Professor O'Hagan was not commissioned by my Department. I understand that he was engaged as a consultant by W. S. Atkins to assist it in its work on Railtrack's asset maintenance plan for track and route structures.

  InterCity East Coast
  Mr. Gunnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many bids were received for the franchise for InterCity East Coast; and what is the subsidy required by the winners, Great Northern Railway Co. Ltd. and by the runner up. [26536]

  Mr. Watts
  Details of the number of bids received for individual franchises and the levels of subsidy required by unsuccessful bidders are commercially confidential.

  The Great Northern Railway Company Ltd. will receive support of £64 million in the first year of the seven-year franchise, falling to zero in the seventh year. It will receive a total of £164.88 million over the duration of the franchise. Figures are in 1996–97 prices and exclude any additional payments arising from level crossing grant. British Rail's preliminary claim for InterCity East Coast for 1996–97 is £76.25 million.

  Mr. Gunnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many staff(a) will be employed by the Great Northern Railway Company and (b) will have had previous employment experiences in the rail industry; and what are the equivalent figures for those employed by InterCity East Coast Ltd. in 1995–96 and by British Rail in 1992–93 in the provision of those same services. [26512]

  Mr. Watts
  The number and experience of staff employed by the Great Northern Railway Company Ltd.—GNR—in the provision of InterCity East Coast services is a matter for GNR. As at 1 April 1996, InterCity East Coast employed 2,867 staff. A comparable figure for 1992–93 is not available as this was prior to the restructuring of the railway.

  Freight
  Mr. Dafis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what percentage of freight moved over land was moved by road vehicles in Great Britain in(a) 1965, (b) 1979 and (c) 1994. [24698]
  583
  Mr. Norris
  The information requested is as follows:

  1965: 74 per cent.

  1979: 77 per cent.

  1994: 85 per cent.

  East Coast Main Line
  Mr. Gunnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the total investment made in the maintenance and development of the east coast main line in 1993–94, 1994–95 and 1995–96; and what is the expected investment by Railtrack in 1996–97. [26511]

  Mr. Watts
  Railtrack informs me that investment figures for the east coast main line are as follows:

  Track renewal

  1993–94: Figures not held by Railtrack

  1994–95: £23.1 million

  1995–96: £23.2 million

  1996–97: £18.3 million (forecast).

  Other than track renewal

  1993–94: £5.9 million

  1994–95: £6.2 million

  1995–96: £6.6 million

  1996–97: £7.0 million (forecast).

  Mr. Gunnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what were the total costs and the net revenue received for Intercity services on the east coast main line in the financial years 1993–94, 1994–95 and 1995–96. [26514]

  Mr. Watts
  The costs and the revenue for InterCity services on the east coast main line for the financial years 1994–95 and 1995–96 are as follows.

  £ million

  1994–95

  11995–96

  Revenue

  241

  292

  Costs

  307

  340

  Administered profit

  4

  18

  Grant support

  70

  66

  1 Provisional

  The figures for 1993–94 are not comparable because they do not reflect total costs for the use of infrastructure and rolling stock.

  Heavy Goods Vehicles
  Mr. Mackinlay
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport on how many occasions over the past five years operators or employers have been prosecuted simultaneously with their drivers for offences relating to the regulations governing heavy goods vehicles, buses and coaches; and on how many occasions prosecutions have been made against the operators alone. [26674]

  Mr. Norris
  Separate statistics are not available in the form requested.

  Bus Safety, Manchester
  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the quality and safety of buses in Greater Manchester. [27538]

  Mr. Norris
  Ensuring the quality and safety of buses is an integral element in the overall enforcement activities carried out by the Vehicle Inspectorate.
  584
  The VI is aware of concerns about the quality of some buses in use in Great Manchester and has worked with the local police to target operators with poor standards of vehicle maintenance. In the Greater Manchester and Derbyshire area during 1995–96, 12.75 per cent. of vehicles tested at spot checks were issued with immediate prohibitions and 13.38 per cent. with delayed prohibitions.

  New investment by bus companies operating in Greater Manchester is expected to impact favourably on vehicle standards in the coming months.

  Mr. Lloyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate he has made of(a) the number of bus operators in Greater Manchester and (b) the number of occasions on which consideration has been given to withdrawing operators' licences for failing to reach and maintain an acceptable safety standard; how many licences have been withdrawn; and if he will make a statement. [27539]

  Mr. Norris
  There are 36 bus operators running local services and claiming fuel duty rebate in the Greater Manchester area. Data about disciplinary action taken by the Traffic Commissioner are not available in the form requested.

  Rail Tunnels and Bridges
  Mr. Austin Mitchell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what proportion of the total number of tunnels on the British Rail network has been inspected in the last(a) 10, (b) 20 and (c) 30 years; [27791]

  (2) what proportion of bridges on the British Rail network has been inspected in the last (a) 10, (b) 20 and (c) 30 years. [27792]

  Mr. Watts
  I understand that all Railtrack's bridges and tunnels are subject to regular visual inspection; in addition, all tunnels receive a full structural inspection annually and all bridges receive a full structural inspection on a six-year cycle.

  Mr. Mitchell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what is the total number of tunnels in the British rail network; and how many were built(a) before 1875, (b) 1876 to 1900, (c) 1901 to 1950 and since 1950; [27789]

  (2) how many bridges there are in the British rail network; and how many were built (a) before 1875, (b) 1876 to 1900, (c) 1901 to 1950 and (d) since 1950. [27786]

  Mr. Watts
  Railtrack's network encompasses around 40,000 bridges, viaducts and tunnels. Many were constructed more than 100 years ago. Further information on the dates of construction could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

  Second Severn Crossing
  Mr. Morgan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) on what dates the latest X-ray inspections of the steelwork on the approach roads to the second Severn crossing took place; if he will list those structures where
  585
  the outcome of the inspection involved the non-acceptance of the steelwork as satisfactory; and what assessment he has made of the impact of the inspections on the contract completion and opening dates for (a) the crossing, (b) the M4 approach roads and (c) the M5 approach roads; and if he will make a statement; [27824]

  (2) what measures he has discussed with the director of the Highways Agency in relation to the delays in the Balfour Beatty contract for the approach roads to the second Severn crossing; [27826]

  (3) what representations he has had in relation to the (a) delayed and (b) defective supply of fabricated Spanish steelwork for the bridge decks on the approach roads to the second Severn crossing and methods used by Balfour Beatty to make good the deficiencies. [27825]

  Mr. Watts
  I have asked the chief executive of the Highways Agency to write to the hon. Member.

  Letter from Lawrie Haynes to Mr. Rhodri Morgan, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Secretary of State for Transport has asked me to reply to your recent questions about the approach roads to the Second Severn Crossing.
  X-ray inspections are not carried out. Non-destructive testing (Ultrasonic and Magnetic Particle Inspections) has been carried out in accordance with the requirements of the Specification for Highway Works.
  Test results have been received for testing carried out on site up to 23 April 1996, and testing is ongoing.
  Defects have been found in the normal course of quality control and inspection. Unexpected levels of defects in some of the welding and some lack of fit between the stiffeners and main beams were found in bridges BI, B31, B44, and B46. All defects have been repaired or are being addressed.
  The inspections have no impact upon the contract completion and opening dates for either the crossing, M4 or M49 (M5) approach roads.
  There has been continued close liaison between us and Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering Ltd. (BBCEL) on contract completion which has ensured that the M4 completion will coincide with the opening of the Second Severn Crossing.
  On 1 May 1996, I explained to the Secretary of State for Transport that the Highways Agency's contractor had been encountering some problems with the steel fabrication for some structures, but that this was the responsibility of the contractor.
  We have been kept informed by BBCEL of the problems with steel supply and defective fabrication and are content with the steps they have taken to rectify the situation.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS

  Entry Clearance Officers (Manila)
  Mr. Wallace
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many complaints his Department has received in each of the last six calendar years in respect of the treatment of visa applications and sponsors by entry clearance officers at the British embassy in Manila; and what proportion of all visa applications in each year these complaints represent. [27373]

  Mr. Hanley
  This information is not readily available and cannot be compiled except at disproportionate cost.

  Land Mines
  Mr. Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on progress made to ban the manufacture, export and use of anti-personnel land mines at the recent negotiations at the first review conference for the 1980 inhumane weapons convention in Geneva. [27140]

  Mr. David Davis
  The UN weaponry convention review conference is currently taking place in Geneva and is expected to be concluded on 3 May. We hope that significant new prohibitions and restrictions will be placed on the use and transfer of anti-personnel land mines taking us significantly closer to the goal of a total international ban on these weapons. The production of mines is not covered by the convention.

  UN Register for Conventional Arms
  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when the United Kingdom returned its 1995 submission to the UN register for conventional arms; and if he will place a copy of the submission in the Library. [27646]

  Mr. David Davis
  We submitted our return to the UN register covering calendar year 1995 to the UN Secretary-General on 30 April 1996. A copy has been placed in the Library of the House.

  European Union Council
  Mr. Fabricant
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on forthcoming business in the Council of the European Union. [28196]

  Mr. David Davis
  The information is as follows:

  SUBJECT: MONTHLY FORECAST OF BUSINESS FOR MAY 1996

  1. The following Councils are scheduled:

  3 May: Spatial Planning and Regional Development (informal)

  4 May: Spatial Planning and Regional Development (informal)

  5 May: Agriculture (informal)

  6 May: Agriculture (informal)

  6 May: Education

  7 May: Agriculture (informal)

  7 May: Energy

  13 May: Foreign Affairs Council

  14 May: Foreign Affairs Council

  14 May: Health

  20 May: Industry

  20 May: Agriculture

  21 May: Agriculture

  23 May: Civil Protection

  28 May: Development

  28 May: Internal Market

  29 May: Telecommunications

  2. The following subjects are likely to be discussed:

  3–4 MAY: SPATIAL PLANNING AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (INFORMAL)

  Agenda not yet available

  5–7 MAY: AGRICULTURE COUNCIL (INFORMAL)

  Agenda not yet available

  6 MAY: EDUCATION COUNCIL

  587

  "A" Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "A" Points

  Open debate on White Paper on Education and Training

  Draft resolution on multimedia software

  Draft conclusions on synergies between academic recognition and professional recognition of qualifications

  Commission note on the assessment of the quality of higher education

  Commission note on the assessment of the quality of school education

  Commission information on:

  European Year of Lifelong Learning;

  Cooperation with Third countries;

  Progress on green Paper on Obstacles to Mobility'

  Key education figures (1996 edition)

  Communication from Greece on setting up a European centre for classical literature

  7 MAY: ENERGY COUNCIL

  "A" Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "B" Points

  Electricity liberalisation: common position (possible item)

  Euro-Mediterranean energy cooperation: Council conclusions

  Commission's Energy Policy White Paper: Council resolution

  Commission communication on gas supply: Council conclusions

  SAVE II energy efficiency programme: political agreement (possible item)

  SYNERGY programme for energy cooperation with third countries: debate

  Integrated resource planning directive: debate

  Energy charter treaty: progress report

  Commission report on civil protection, tourism and energy;

  Commission presentation

  Commission report on oil supply: Commission presentation

  13–14 MAY: FOREIGN AFFAIRS COUNCIL

  Agenda not yet available

  14 MAY: HEALTH COUNCIL

  "A" Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "B" Points

  Adoption of the draft agenda

  Proposal for a decision adopting a programme of Community action on health monitoring within the framework for action in the field of public health: adoption of a common position

  Proposal for a decision of the European parliament and of the council creating a network for the epidemiological surveillance and control of communicable diseases in the European Community: orientation debate

  Creation of an EU/US (EU/United States) action group charged with developing a global early warning system and response network for communicable diseases: information on work to date

  Proposal for a decision of the EP and the Council adopting a Community programme of Community action on the prevention of drug dependence within the framework for action in the field of public health: second reading, in preparation for concilliation with EP

  588

  Amended proposal for a Council directive on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the member states relating to the advertising of tobacco products: orientation debate

  BSE and the potential risks for transmission to man: information from the commission and exchange of views.

  20 MAY: INDUSTRY COUNCIL

  "A" Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "B" Points

  SMEs: draft Council Decision for new multi-annual programme for SMEs: orientation debate

  Industrial cooperation with third countries, and the Mediterranean Basin in particular: draft Council resolution

  Automobile industry: Commission report on follow-up on Council resolution of 22 April 1994

  Competition Policy: 25th annual Commission report on competition policy

  Steel:

  State aids—Commission monitoring report

  Extension of steel state aid code: presentation and exchange of views

  Commission document on expiry of ECSC treaty in 2002: exchange of views

  Draft Council regulation on state aid for shipbuilding: exchange of views

  20–21 MAY: AGRICULTURAL COUNCIL

  "A" Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "B" Points

  Reform of the fruit and vegetable regime

  Price fixing

  Bananas (possible item)

  Wine reform (possible item)

  Olive oil reform (possible item)

  Tobacco reform (possible item)

  Plant health: solidarity and responsibility (possible item)

  Veterinary and fish fees (possible item)

  BSE

  23 MAY: CIVIL PROTECTION COUNCIL

  "A" Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "B" Points

  Community action programme on civil protection

  Resolution on civil protection research

  Resolution on cooperation with the CEEs on civil protection

  28 MAY: INTERNAL MARKET COUNCIL

  "A " Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "B" Points

  Sweeteners: common position

  Traditional foodstuffs: common position

  Miscellaneous additives: common position

  Foodstuffs for particular nutritional uses (PARNUTS): common position (possible item)

  Food irradiation: orientation debate

  589
  28 MAY: DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

  "A" Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "B" Points

  Links between emergency aid, rehabilitation and reconstruction: debate on priorities for immediate action

  Conflict prevention: presentation by the Commission

  Operational co-ordination: Council conclusions

  Council conclusions on:

  Environmental impact evaluation

  Decentralised co-operation

  Migration and development

  Counterpart funds

  Proposals for legal bases for EC development cooperation (i.e. draft EC regulations governing EC aid) (possible item)

  Other business:

  Cocoa (requested by Belgium)

  UN Reform (requested by Sweden)

  29 MAY: TELECOMMUNICATIONS COUNCIL

  "A" Points

  As advised by Council Secretariat

  "B" Points

  Directive on a common framework for general authorisations and individual licences in the field of telecommunications services: common position

  Directive on common rules for the development of Community postal services and the improvement of the quality of service: common position

HOME DEPARTMENT

  Professor Mohammed Al-Masari
  Mr. Galloway
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what decision he has reached upon the application for political asylum by Professor Mohammed Al-Masari. [26555]

  Miss Widdecombe
  Dr. Al-Masari has been given leave to remain for an initial period of four years. Dr. Al-Masari's asylum application has not been considered substantively.

  Drink Driving
  Mr. Allen
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he will take to ensure that the police ensure that identity in drink drive cases is substantiated by evidence other than the driver's licence alone. [26591]

  Mr. Maclean
  This is an operational matter for the police, but I understand that, when someone is charged with a drink drive offence, the usual procedure is to carry out checks on the vehicle records and the address given, in addition to verifying licence details.

  Asylum Cases
  Mr. Alton
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what budgetary allocation(a) was made in 1994–95 and (b) has been set aside for 1996–97 for (i) the B3 division of the immigration and nationality department and (ii) the Home Office presenting officers' unit in B1 division; how many decisions were made by B3 division
  590
  in each of the last two years; how many decisions are projected for 1996–97; how many (1) cases in total and (2) asylum cases were presented by Home Office presenting officers in each of the last two years; and how many cases in each category they are projected to present in 1996–97. [27175]

  Mr. Kirkhope
  The available information is contained in the tables:

  Running costs

  Asylum division1

  B1 presenting officers' unit1

  1994–95

  £13 million

  £2.8 million

  1996–97

  Not finally settled2

  Not finally settled2

  1 Does not include accommodation costs and certain other overheads not allocated to the units concerned to manage directly.

  2 Final amount depends on the precise allocation of spend to save funds for 1996–97.

  Asylum division

  Decisions

  1994

  21,000

  1995

  27,000

  Projected 1996–97

  45,000

  April 1994 to March 1995

  April 1995 to March 11996

  Decisions on asylum applications

  23,975

  28,915

  Total appeal determinations2

  26,220

  21,700

  Of which; asylum appeals3

  3,335

  8,320

  1 Provisional figures.

  2 Separate figures for cases presented are not available.

  3 Includes asylum appeals referred back to the Secretary of State for further consideration.

  Firearms
  Mr. William Ross
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what review of firearms legislation is presently being carried out by his Department; when it(a) began and (b) was announced; what are its terms of reference; what are the names and positions of those conducting the review; from whom submissions have been received to date; and from whom else submissions have been requested. [27122]

  Mr. Maclean
  My right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland announced on 21 March that they would conduct a joint review of firearms controls in Great Britain. The review began at that time and has now considered the arguments for and against the changes in the controls which have been suggested following the tragic events in Dunblane on 13 March.

  In conducting their review, my right hon. and learned Friend and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland have taken account of submissions from opposition parties, comments from the Firearms consultative committee and over 2, 000 letters from Members of Parliament and the public. Comments were invited from all interested parties who are, of course, free to submit their evidence directly to Lord Cullen's inquiry.
  591
  Mr. Ross
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many of the recommendations made by the Firearms Consultative Committee in its(a) first, (b) second, (c) third, (d) fourth, (e) fifth and (f) sixth report (i) have been implemented, (ii) dealt with matters

  Firearms consultative committee annual report

  (a) 1st

  (b) 2nd

  (c) 3rd

  (d) 4th

  (e) 5th

  (f) 6th

  Recommendations which have been implemented or which require no action

  18

  15

  12

  6

  19

  15

  Recommendations which would require primary legislation

  1

  9

  9

  1

  17

  17

  Recommendations which could be implemented through a change in administrative procedures

  1

  4

  2

  6

  11

  13

  In addition, a number of the recommendations of the Firearms Consultative Committee would require secondary legislation to implement them and are not included in the table above. Some of the recommendations included in the table have been formally rejected.

  It is not possible to identify separately those recommendations which deal solely with matters of public safety but, in making recommendations, the committee always consider the likely impact on public safety.

  Mr. Ross
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department at(a) directions and (b) terms of reference he has given to the Firearms Consultative Committee to review firearms legislation since 13 March; what submissions have been received and from whom; what other information has been sought and from whom; and if he will place a copy of (i) that information and (ii) the final report in the Library. [27123]

  Mr. Maclean
  The terms of reference of the Firearms Consultative Committee, as set out in section 22(5) of the Firearms (Amendment) Act 1988. These have not been changed since 13 March. Within its terms of reference, the Firearms Consultative Committee may consider any issues arising from the tragic events of 13 March that it considers appropriate.

  I understand that the Firearms Consultative Committee has received a number of submissions from members of the public and other interested parties. Publication of any material submitted to the committee is a matter for it.

  The Firearms Consultative Committee is required by section 22(6) of the Firearms (Amendment) Act 1988 to make a report each year on its activities to the Secretary of State, who is required to lay copies of the report before Parliament. A copy of the report of the committee for this year will be placed in the Library in the usual way.

  Holloway Prison
  Dr. Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to the oral statement of the Minister of State of 28 March,Official Report, column 1286 and his answer of 24 April, Official Report, column 163, on how many occasions in the last two years the Minister of State has visited Holloway prison. [27555]
  592
  of public safety, (iii) would require amendment of primary legislation and (iv) could be implemented by a change in administrative procedures. [27127]

  Mr. Maclean
  The information requested is set out in the table:

  Miss Widdecombe
  I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member on 24 April,Official Report, column 163.

  Durham Constabulary (Compensation)
  Mr. Steinberg
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how much compensation Durham constabulary paid out in each year since 1980; and for what reasons. [27380]

  Mr. Maclean
  This information is not held centrally.

  Stray Dogs
  Mr. Battle
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to transfer the responsibility for stray dogs from the police services to local authorities. [27302]

  Mr. Maclean
  Since April 1992, local authorities have had primary responsibility for dealing with stray dogs. The police have a duty under the Dogs Act 1906 to deal with stray dogs brought to police stations. The report of the review of police core and ancillary tasks, published on 27 June 1995, proposed that the police might shed this statutory duty so that local authorities would assume full responsibility for strays.

  The proposal, with examples of other co-operative schemes involving police and local authorities, is being considered in consultation with police and local authority associations before any decision is reached.

  Immigration
  Mr. Bernie Grant
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many people have been prosecuted under the provisions of paragraph 325, sub-paragraph (II)(f) of the immigration rules within the last five years; what guidelines on sentencing policy for those found guilty under the said provisions have been issued to the courts; how many of those prosecuted were convicted; how many of those convicted were sent to prison; how many were fined; what was the most common prison sentence given; and what was the most common fine levied. [27247]

  Mr. Maclean
  Information collected centrally cannot identify the exact immigration sub-rule under which a prosecution under section 26 (1) (f) of the Immigration Act 1971—whereby it is an offence for a foreign national,
  593
  subject to conditions imposed, to fail to register with the police—has been made. No guidelines have been issued by the Department on sentencing policy relating to the above legislation.

  Defendants proceeded against at magistrates' courts for offences associated with failing to register with the police under section 26 (1)(f) of the Immigration Act 1971 by result 1990 to 1994

  England and Wales

  Offence1 description/year

  Total proceeded against

  Total found guilty

  Total for sentence

  Total fined

  Average fine (£)

  Total immediate custody

  Average Custodial sentence length (months)

  Otherwise dealt with

  Foreign national failing

  1990

  6

  5

  5

  1

  100

  —

  —

  4

  to register with police

  1991

  6

  4

  4

  4

  48

  —

  —

  —

  or to produce

  1992

  8

  4

  4

  2

  38

  —

  —

  2

  documents etc,

  1993

  6

  1

  1

  —

  —

  —

  —

  1

  1994

  —

  —

  —

  —

  —

  —

  —

  —

  1Principal immigration offence.

  Prisons (Suicides)
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisoners in(a) prison establishments and (b) police custody have (i) committed and (ii) attempted suicide in each of the last 10 years; and if he will make a statement. [27446]

  Miss Widdecombe
  Responsibility for this matter has been delegated to the Director General of the Prison Service, who has been asked to arrange for a reply to be given.

  Letter from A. J. Butler to Mr. Elfyn Llwyd, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Home Secretary has asked me, in the absence of the Director General from the office, to reply to your recent Question about suicides.
  The attached tables give the number of self-inflicted deaths in Prison Service establishments, in England and Wales (1985–1995); the number of reported incidents of attempted suicides (1991–1995); and the number of suicides in police custody (1985–1995). Numbers of attempted suicides in police custody are not held centrally. Numbers of attempted suicides in prison establishments were not held centrally before 1991.

  Number of attempted suicides in prison establishments for the period 1991–95

  Number

  1991

  676

  1992

  731

  1993

  818

  1994

  847

  1995

  772

  Number of self-inflicted deaths in prison establishments for the period 1985–1995

  Number

  1985

  27

  1986

  21

  1987

  46

  1988

  37

  1989

  48

  1990

  50

  1991

  42

  1992

  42

  594
  The court proceedings data given in the table show the number of defendants prosecuted, in England and Wales only, for failing to register with the police, by result, from 1990 to 1994—latest available.

  Number of self-inflicted deaths in prison establishments for the period 1985–1995

  Number

  1993

  47

  1994

  62

  1995

  60

  "Self-inflected" deaths includes deaths where other inquest verdicts, such as "open" and "misadventure" have been recorded.

  Number of suicides in police custody for the period 1985–1995

  England and Wales (excluding Metropolitan police)

  Metropolitan police

  1985

  2

  1

  1986

  2

  2

  1987

  1

  1

  1988

  4

  1

  1989

  3

  4

  1990

  0

  3

  1991

  10

  —

  1991–921

  —

  2

  1992

  3

  —

  1992–931

  —

  2

  1993

  3

  —

  1993–941

  —

  1

  1994

  3

  —

  1994–951

  —

  21

  The statistics provided represent those deaths whereby the Inquest has been held and the verdict given as "Death due to Suicide".

  1 Figures recorded on a financial year basis.

  2 Provisional figure.

  Video Evidence
  Mr. Alex Carlile
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the Home Office advisory group's recommendations on video evidence; and if he will make a statement. [27563]

  Mr. Maclean
  The Criminal Justice Act 1991 implemented most of the recommendations of the advisory group on video evidence. In particular, it prohibited the defendant from questioning the child and it allowed the child's main evidence to be given by means of a video-recorded interview conducted by police and social workers soon after the incident. We are
  595
  not persuaded that video recording of pre-trial cross-examination, also recommended by the group, would be in the best interests of children.

  The Government remain determined that the criminal justice system should be made more responsive to the needs of children and that the measures introduced by the 1991 Act should work as effectively as possible. We are pursuing a range of further improvements to the present arrangements to secure practical benefits for children.

  Greater Manchester Police
  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list(a) the capital spending by Greater Manchester police in (i) 1993–94, (ii) 1994–95, (iii) 1995–96 and (b) the estimated and projected spending in (x) 1996–97 and (y) 1997–98 in (1) cash terms and (2) 1996 prices; and if he will make a statement. [27537]

  Mr. Maclean
  The information is listed in the table.

  Greater Manchester police—capital expenditure

  1993–94

  1994–95

  11995–96

  11996–97

  21997–98

  Cash terms £ million

  11.407

  11.774

  14.305

  13.845

  18.619

  1996 prices £ million

  12.265

  12.430

  14.968

  13.845

  18.619

  1 Force estimate.

  2 Force projection.

  Wheel Clamping
  Mr. Rooney
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has for legislation following the consultation exercise on wheel clamping. [27878]

  Mr. Maclean
  The Government are still considering what action, if any, should be taken to regulate wheel clamping on private land. We are looking at the possible need for new legislation as part of that consideration.

  Police Cells
  Mr. Alex Carlile
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the effect of the reduction in capital expenditure in his Department during the current financial year on the use of police cells; and if he will make a statement. [26671]

  Miss Widdecombe
  [holding answer 29 April 1996]: Responsibility for this matter has been delegated to the Director General of the Prison Service, who has been asked to arrange for a reply to be given.

  Letter from A. J. Butler to Mr. Alex Carlile, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Home Secretary has asked me, in the absence of the Director General from the office, to reply to your recent Question about whether an assessment has been made on the effect the reduction in capital expenditure during the current financial year will have on the use of police cells.
  An assessment of the effect of the reduction in capital expenditure was made in December 1996. This work concluded that there was no significant increase in the risk of having to resort to the use of police cells in 1996–97.
  The Prison Service has not been using police cells since June 1995. Apart from a major unplanned loss of accommodation or an unexpected rise in the population above current projections, and above our capacity to accommodate with other measures, we do not plan to use police cells.

  Capital Expenditure
  Mr. Straw
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list(a) total capital expenditure for his Department and (b) capital expenditure on (i) the Prison Service, (ii) police and (iii) other Department functions indicting the expenditure planned for each of the following three financial years set out in the public expenditure surveys for 1991–92 and each subsequent year together with estimated outturns where these are available. [26035]

  Mr. Howard
  [holding answer 24 April 1996]: Information in the form requested is not available.

  Capital spending by the Home Department has been as follows:

  £ million, outturn prices

  Year

  Prison service

  Police

  Other

  Total

  1991–92

  431.7

  193.7

  85.6

  711.0

  1992–93

  342.7

  221.4

  102.6

  666.7

  1993–94

  294.0

  243.6

  112.9

  650.5

  1994–95

  322.8

  242.5

  96.6

  661.9

  1995–961

  327.7

  252.5

  92.6

  672.8

  1996–971

  120.0

  224.7

  85.4

  431.1

  1997–981

  111.5

  220.3

  82.9

  414.7

  1998–991

  113.6

  200.8

  81.7

  396.1

  1. The data are standardised by including expenditure for services which are the current responsibility of the Home Office.

  2. The figures for "Police" and "Other" include capital grants and credit approvals to local authorities.

  3. Capital expenditure by the Charity Commission is omitted.

  4. "Police" expenditure includes expenditure by the Forensic Science Service agency. "Other" includes expenditure by the United Kingdom Passport Agency and the Fire Service College trading fund.

  1Actual expenditure is given for years up to 1994–95; estimates for 1995–96; public expenditure survey projections for later years.

  Prisoners (Television Sets)
  Mr. Alex Carlile
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to remove television sets from(a) sentenced and (b) remand prisoners; and if he will make a statement. [26672]

  Mr. Howard
  [holding answer 29 April 1996]: Policy on this subject is still under consideration.

  Eastwood Park Prison
  Mr. George Howarth
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list those courts which fall into the catchment area of HMP Eastwood Park, and those which previously were in the catchment area of Pucklechurch remand centre; if he will list for each court the number of prisoners by offence(a) remand in custody, and unconvicted, (b) remanded to custody following conviction, but unsentenced, (c) sentenced prisoners in each year since 1990 and (d) the number of cases brought before each court by offence in each year since 1990. [27235]

  Miss Widdecombe
  [holding answer 29 April 1996]: Responsibility for this matter has been delegated to the Director General of the Prison Service, who has been asked to arrange a reply to be given.
  597
  Letter from A. J. Butler to Mr. George Howarth, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Home Secretary has asked me, in the absence of the Director General from the Office, to reply to your recent Question about Eastwood Park and Pucklechurch prisons.
  The courts which commit female prisoners to Eastwood Park prison are given in the attached list and are the same as those which commit to Pucklechurch remand centre.
  The information requested about remand prisoners at each court is not available centrally.
  Information on the number of indicatable cases heard at each court is published annually in criminal statistics supplementary tables. Crown court information by centre is given in Volume 2 and magistrates' courts by individual Petty Sessional Division are in Volume 5 and Volume 4 from 1991 to 1994 (latest available). Copies of these volumes are available in the Library.
  The information requested for each court by offence could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

  Crown Court

  Barnstaple

  Bristol

  Dorchester

  Exeter

  Gloucester

  Plymouth

  Salisbury

  Swindon and Devizes

  Taunton

  Truro

  Cardiff

  Carmarthen

  Haverfordwest

  Merthyr Tydfil

  Newport

  Swansea

  Magistrates' Courts

  Bath and Wansdyke Division

  Bristol Division

  North Avon Division

  Woodspring Division

  Bodmin Division

  Dunheved and Stratton Division

  East Powder Division

  South East Cornwall Division

  East Penwirth Division

  Falmouth and Kerrier Division

  Isles of Scilly Division

  Truro Division

  Truro and South Powder Division

  Axminster and Honiton Division

  Cullompton Division

  Exeter and Wonford Division

  Exmouth Division

  Tiverton Division

  Barnstaple and South Molton Division

  Bideford and Great Torrington Division

  Plymouth Division

  South Hams Division

  Teignbridge Division

  Torbay Division

  Central Dorset Division

  598

  Poole Division

  West Dorset Division

  Weymouth and Portland Division

  Cirencester, Fairford and Tetbury Division

  Forest of Dean Division

  Gloucester Division

  North Gloucestershire Division

  South Gloucestershire Division

  Bromsgrove and Redditch Division

  Herefordshire Division

  Severminster Division

  South Worcestershire Division

  Mendip Division

  Sedgemoor Division

  south Somerset Division

  Taunton Deane Division

  West Somerset Division

  Atherstone and Coleshill Division

  Nuneaton Division

  Mid-Warwickshrie Division

  Rugby Division

  Kennet Division

  North Wiltshire Division

  Salisbury Division

  Swindon Division

  West Wiltshire Division

  Carmarthen North Division

  Carmarthen South Division

  Ceredigion Ganol Division

  Gogledd Ceridigion Division

  Gogledd Preseli Division

  Cleddau Division

  De Ceredigion Division

  South Pembrokeshire Division

  Dinefwr Division

  Llanelli Division

  Bedwellty Division

  East Gwent Division

  Newport Division

  Cynon Valley Division

  Lower Rhymney Valley Division

  Merthyr Tydfil Division

  Miskin Division

  Newcastle and Ogmore Division

  Upper Rhymney Valley Division

  Brecon Division

  Radnorshire and North Brecknock Division

  Ystradgynlais Division

  Machynlleth Division

  Newtown Division

  Welshpool Division

  Cardiff Division

  Vale of Glamorgan Division

  Port Talbot Division

  Lliw Valley Division

  Neath Division

  Swansea Division

  Buckley Hall Prison (Escapes)
  Ms Lynne
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the Prison Service will carry out an investigation into the escape of four prisoners from Buckley Hall prison on 23 April; and if he will publish details of the investigation. [27291]

  Miss Widdecombe
  [holding answer 1 May 1996]: Responsibility for this matter has been delegated to the Director General of the Prison Service, who has been asked to arrange for a reply to be given.

  Letter from A. J. Butler to Ms Liz Lynne, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Home Secretary has asked me, in the absence of the Director General from the office, to reply to your recent Question about the investigation into the escape of four prisoners from Buckley Hall prison on 23 April 1996.
  An investigation into the escape began on 24 April 1996. Conclusions and recommendations will be submitted to the area manager on completion of the inquiry. In line with normal procedures, there is no intention to publish the report or the findings of the inquiry.

  Television Licences
  Ms Lynne
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what consideration has been given to the possible change in the number of people that might be imprisoned for the non-payment of a television licence fine following the introduction of a weekly cash instalment scheme for the payment of the television licence; and what discussions his Department has had with the Department of National Heritage on this issue. [26857]

  Mr. Maclean
  [holding answer I May 1996]: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the National Heritage has given approval in principle for the BBC to introduce a cash instalment scheme for television licence payment. The scheme is expected to be piloted by the BBC later this year, and this will assist those who find it difficult to pay for a television licence by existing methods. Television licence evasion remains, however, a criminal offence punishable by a fine. It is the non-payment of such a fine that can result in imprisonment, but only where that default is the result of wilful refusal or culpable neglect.

  My right hon and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor has established a working group, which includes representatives of the Magistrates' Association and Justices' Clerks' Society, to identify ways of improving the effectiveness of fine enforcement.

  Small and Medium Businesses
  Mrs. Roche
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proportion of his Department's budget was spent on procurement from small and medium enterprises in 1995–96[27528]

  Mr. Howard
  [holding answer I May 1996]: The information required to answer this question is not held centrally and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

ENVIRONMENT

  Heating (Fuel Requirements)
  Mr. Simpson
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will estimate the percentage difference in fuel required to heat identical houses in Nottingham and Derby. [26517]

  Mr. Clappison
  I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to him by my hon. Friend, the Minister for Construction, Planning and Energy Efficiency on 24 April,Official Report, column 147.

  Sustainable Development
  Mr. Dafis
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to extend the work carried out by his Department presented in "Indicators of Sustainable Development for the United Kingdom", by the construction of indicators at the level of individual businesses. [24697]

  Mr. Clappison
  The indicators published by the Department of the Environment are national in nature and, in many cases, relate to broad industrial sectors. Individual businesses should be able to construct their own indicators to compare their performance with the national sectoral norm.

  Mr. Dafis
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will develop indicators to measure the contribution of United Kingdom international trade to sustainable development globally. [26516]

  Mr. Clappison
  The issue of international trade was flagged up in the report of indicators of sustainable development for the United Kingdom published on 12 March 1996. This area requires much further work as the issues involved are very complex. In the longer term, we will need to consider, in conjunction with other countries and international organisations, whether more appropriate indicators might be developed to illustrate the role of international trade in global patterns of consumption and production.

  Biodiversity
  Mr. Dafis
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how much of the planned expenditure for 1996–97 on international biodiversity is devoted to(a) the administrative costs of the biodiversity convention secretariat and (b) contributions to developing countries for the implementation of their biodiversity action plans. [24699]

  Mr. Clappison
  In 1996–97, £433,000 has been allocated to the administrative costs of the biodiversity convention secretariat. In addition, the Government have set aside £167,000 principally to contribute towards the travelling costs of developing countries attending the convention meetings. Funding developing countries to produce biodiversity action plans is one of the priorities for the convention's interim financial mechanism, the global environment facility, to which the United Kingdom has committed some £130 million. National biodiversity projects are also funded under the bilateral aid programme.
  601
  Already this financial year, more than £0.6 million has been committed in addition to over £30 million in 1995–96. The Darwin initiative has so far funded over 110 projects costing £12 million to help almost 60 countries towards meeting their obligations under the biodiversity convention.

  Environmental Pollution Reports
  Mr. Dafis
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the average length of time between the publication of reports I to 17 of the royal commission on environmental pollution and the publication of the Government's response to those reports. [26515]

  Mr. Clappison
  The average length of time between the publication of reports 1 to 17 of the royal commission on environmental pollution and the publication of the Government's response to those reports was about two years five months.

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

  Coal Privatisation
  Mr. Byers
  To ask the President of the Board of Trade how many hours to date N. M. Rothschild has worked on the contract to give advice on the privatisation of the coal industry; and when the contract is expected to conclude. [27797]

  Mr. Page
  N. M. Rothschild has, to date, worked approximately 37,800 hours on providing advice on the privatisation of the coal industry. The contract will end once the privatisation, including the non-mining activities, is complete.

  Atolls (Radioactivity)
  Mr. Dalyell
  To ask the President of the Board of Trade, pursuant to the answer of 3 April,Official Report, column 300, what progress has been made by the International Atomic Energy Agency in its assessment of the radiological situation of the atolls of Muroroa and Fangataufa. [27561]

  Mr. Page
  No formal progress report has yet been received from the International Atomic Energy Agency. We understand, however, that initial meetings have been held and that the necessary task groups and working groups have been established.

  Business Innovation Centres
  Mrs. Roche
  To ask the President of the Board of Trade how many business innovation centres are co-located with business links and which they are; what research his Department has commissioned on the relationship of business links to business innovation centres; and what is the remit of his research. [27189]

  Mr. Page
  [holding answer I May 1996]: My Department has recently commissioned research into the relationship between business links and business and innovation centres. The remit of this study is to identify the services provided by each business and innovation centre, define the degree of formal and informal integration business links and business innovation centres
  602
  and make recommendation on how collaboration could be further enhanced. Two business and innovation centres, in Sunderland and Stafford, are currently co-located with business links.

  Drug Alert
  Mr. Flynn
  To ask the President of the Board of Trade what research he has(a) commissioned into and (b) evaluated on Drug Alert. [26780]

  Mr. Sackville
  [holding answer 25 April 1996]: I have been asked to reply.

  The Government have not commissioned or evaluated any research on Drug Alert.

LORD CHANCELLOR'S DEPARTMENT

  Justices of the Peace, Wales
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department how many new justices of the peace were appointed in Wales during 1995; and what is the political affiliation of the new appointees. [27019]

  Mr. Jonathan Evans
  The total number of new justices of the peace appointed in Wales in 1995 was 112. Their political affiliation is as follows:

  Conservative: 30

  Labour: 46

  Liberal Democrat: 12

  Plaid Cymru: 12

  Independent/Other: 12

  County Court, Northampton
  Mr. Timms
  To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department how much compensation for delay has been paid since the commencement of the current industrial action at the county court bulk issuing and summons production centres at Northampton. [26961]

  Mr. Jonathan Evans
  The question concerns a specific operational matter on which the chief executive of the Court Service is best placed to provide an answer and I have accordingly asked the chief executive to reply direct.

  Letter from M. D. Huebner to Mr. Stephen Timms, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department has asked me to reply to your Question about the amount of compensation that has been paid since the commencement of industrial action at the County Court Bulk Issue Centre and the Summons Production Centre at Northampton.
  No compensation has been paid.

  Mr. Timms
  To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department which organisations have received compensation for delays arising from the current industrial action at the county court bulk issuing and summons production centres in Northampton. [26962]

  Mr. Evans
  The question concerns a specific operational matter on which the chief executive of the Court Service is best placed to provide an answer and I have accordingly asked the chief executive to reply direct.
  603
  Letter from M. D. Huebner to Mr. Stephen Timms, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department has asked me to reply to your Question about the compensation paid as a result of industrial action at the County Court Bulk Issue Centre and the Summons Production Centre at Northampton.
  No organisation has received compensation as a result of this industrial action.

HEALTH

  Oral Cancer
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what plans his Department has to introduce a co-ordinated national programme of education in the early identification of oral cancer; and if he will make a statement; [27016]

  (2) what steps are being taken by his Department to reduce the number of deaths from oral cancer; and if he will make a statement; [26982]

  (3) what plans he has to ensure that dental examinations include a systematic soft tissue screening for oral cancer; and if he will make a statement; [26984]

  (4) what steps are being taken by his Department to raise pubic awareness of oral cancer and its risk factors; and if he will make a statement; [27014]

  (5) what research his Department is currently funding into oral cancer; and if he will make a statement; [27017]

  (6) what plans he has to include oral cancer targets on the "The Health of the Nation" programme; and if he will make a statement. [27015]

  Mr. Horam
  All oral examinations include examination of both hard and soft tissue. Dentists are trained in the early recognition of abnormalities in the mouth. Oral cancer can result from excessive alcohol or tobacco consumption, the risks of which are widely publicised and recognised. There are no plans at present to introduce set targets for reducing oral cancer morbidity or mortality rates. The chief dental officer chairs the national advisory group on screening for oral cancer which was set up last October. The group co-ordinates the detecting and preventing of oral cancers. The national health service national cancer research and development programme commissioned in 1995 a systematic review of the early natural history of certain cancers, including oral cancer, where there was potential for screening to reduce mortality. This research item was one of 25 priority areas ratified by the NHS Central Research and Development Committee. The systematic review is being undertaken by the cancer screening evaluation unit based at the Institute of Cancer Research. It will take approximately one year.

  GP Lists
  Ms Harman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the grounds on which a general practitioner can remove an NHS patient from their list. [27146]

  Mr. Malone
  Under his terms of service"a general practitioner may have any person removed from his list and is required to notify the health authority in writing that he wishes to have a person removed from his list."
  604
  Professional guidance issued by the General Medical Council in May 1992 states that
  "it is unacceptable to abuse the right to refuse to accept patients by applying criteria of access to the practice list which discriminate against groups of patients on grounds of their age, sex, sexual orientation, race, colour, religious belief, perceived economic worth or the amount of work they are likely to generate by virtue of their clinical condition."

  HIV Test
  Mr. Gerrard
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the cost of retesting the 25,000 stored samples which had previously been tested for HIV using the faulty Abbot kit; and who will be responsible for meeting this cost. [27151]

  Mr. Horam
  It is too early to say yet what the costs of the retesting exercise are likely to have been but national health service trusts have been asked to keep a record of their costs and the Department is liaising with the NHS and public health laboratory service on this. Abbott Laboratories Ltd. has stated that it will pay the cost of retesting.

  East London and the City Health Authority
  Ms Harman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will give the budget of the East London and the City health authority in each year from 1994–95 to 1997–98. [27112]

  Mr. Malone
  For details of the 1994–95 final revenue cash limit and the 1995–96 initial revenue cash limit for East London and the City district health authority, I refer the hon. Member to the reply my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State (Mr. Horam) gave her on 11 December 1995,Official Report, column 520.

  The 1996–97 initial revenue cash limit for East London and the City health authority is £317, 616,000.

  Cash limits for 1997–98 have not yet been set.

  HIV and AIDS
  Mr. Kirkwood
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the changes from April in the system for commissioning national health promotion work on HIV and AIDS. [27176]

  Mr. Horam
  The Government's HIV-AIDS health promotion strategy1, published in November 1995, identifies the need for targeted and national campaigns and for greater voluntary sector involvement in this area. A contract to undertake a national campaign in the coming year has been awarded to the Health Education Authority. We are currently exploring the scope for greater voluntary sector involvement with targeted campaigns.

  1 "HIV and AIDS Health Promotion: an Evolving Strategy", a copy of which is in the Library.

  Elderly Patients
  Mr. David Nicholson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many representations have been made to his Department about the practice of some general practitioners of removing elderly patients from their lists in each of the last four years; and what statistics he
  605
  collates which show the number of patients aged over 70 years who are removed from general practitioner lists against their will each year. [27245]

  Mr. Malone
  The Department has received several representations from members of the public and from hon. Members concerning the removal of patients from general practitioners' lists. Information by age category on the number of patients removed is not available centrally.

  Tuberculosis
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many children were notified as having tuberculosis in each of the last five years; and how many in each year were from areas where health authorities stopped the school immunisation programme. [27441]

  Mr. Horam
  The number of notifications of all tuberculosis, excluding chemoprophylaxis, in children under 16 years old in England and Wales is shown below:

  1991:483

  1992:548

  1993:596

  1994:433

  1995:422 (provisional).

  BCG immunisation to protect against tuberculosis is recommended for children between the ages of 10 and 14. District health authorities are responsible for the programme in their own areas and information on this is not available centrally.

  Dental Provision
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made as to the adequacy of NHS dental provision; and if he will make a statement. [27418]

  Mr. Malone
  I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave my hon. Friend the Member of Taunton (Mr. Nicholson) on 16 April columns,Official Report, 475–76.

  Hospital Beds, Doncaster
  Mr. Kevin Hughes
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many private hospital beds registered with the Doncaster health authority there were within the Doncaster metropolitan borough in each year since 1979; and how many there are currently. [27430]

  Mr. Horam
  There were 42 beds registered with the Doncaster health authority in private hospitals or clinics within the boundaries of Doncaster metropolitan district in 1993–94 and 36 in 1994–95. Information is not available centrally for years before 1993–94.

  HIV
  Mr. Merchant
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department is taking to keep the general population informed about the continuing risks from HIV. [27398]

  Mr. Horam
  The Health Education Authority has an on-going programme in this area, including its recent winter campaign aimed at young people.

  Factor 8
  Mr. Pawsey
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what research his Department has commissioned into factor 8; where it is based; who does it; what it costs; and when it started; [27711]

  (2) what evidence he has evaluated based on research into factor 8 otherwise than in the United Kingdom. [27712]

  Mr. Horam
  The Department has not commissioned any current research on factor 8. Research findings from abroad, as well as from the United Kingdom, are kept under review when any relevant decision are taken by the Department.

  Breast Cancer
  Mr. Gunnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance he has issued on the recommended waiting time for breast cancer patients between surgery and the start of radiotherapy treatment; and what percentage of patients at the Yorkshire regional centre at Cookridge, Leeds begin within that time. [26490]

  Mr. Horam
  The Department has not issued guidance on a recommended waiting time for such treatment.

  Yorkshire Regional Centre, Cookridge
  Mr. Gunnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how many patients were treated at the Yorkshire regional centre in each of the financial years from 1991–92 to 1995–96; and what were the numbers who began their treatment in each three month period from April 1994 to April 1996; [26491]

  (2) what is the current waiting list for starting radiotherapy treatment at Cookridge; and what it was on (a) 1 April 1994, (b) 1 October 1994, (c) 1 April 1995 and (d) 1 October 1995; [26492]

  (3) how many linear accelerators for breast cancer radiotherapy treatment are available at the Yorkshire regional centre at Cookridge; [24693]

  (4) what assessment he has made of the number of additional staff necessary to match the present demands on the service at the Cookridge centre; and what plans he has to meet these needs. [24696]

  Mr. Horam
  These are matters for United Leeds Teaching Hospitals national health service trust. The hon. Member may wish to contact Mr. David Hall, chairman of the trust for details.

  Linear Accelerators
  Mr. Gunnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the average waiting time between the completion of a purchasing agreement for a linear accelerator and its commissioning after installation. [24694]

  Mr. Horam
  The average waiting time between the completion of the purchasing agreement for a linear accelerator and its commissioning after installation is not available centrally. However, factors which could affect the waiting time are the complexity of the particular linear accelerator under consideration and the availability of local scientific and technical expertise.
  607
  Mr. Gunnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what requests from the Cookridge centre for linear accelerators are currently under consideration by Northern and Yorkshire Health and when is completion of the purchasing agreement is expected. [24695]

  Mr. Horam
  An outline business case has been submitted to the national health service executive's Northern and Yorkshire regional office from the United Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS trust for provision of two linear accelerators, one new simulator and associated building work at Cookridge hospital.

  Further consideration is now being given to the business case in the light of the recommendations of the Leeds acute services review, which was published recently.

  Xenotransplantation
  Mr. Morley
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make it his policy that no xenotransplantation trials involving human recipients should proceed until an advisory committee on xenotransplantation has been set up. [27886]

  Mr. Horam
  My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health last year established an advisory group on the ethics of xenotransplantation, with the following terms of reference:"In the light of recent and potential developments in xenotransplantation, to review the acceptability of and ethical framework within which xenotransplantation may be undertaken and to make recommendations."

  The advisory group will report by summer 1996. My right hon. Friend will then consider its recommendations and the policy implications.

  Read Codes System
  Mr. Morgan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what was the original proposed date and location of the launch of the Read codes system for coding and classification in the NHS; and what form the launch was planned to take. [27625]

  Mr. Horam
  The scheduled date for the launch was October 1995, to be held in London. The purpose was to announce the successful completion of the terms projects and to report early results from pilots.

  Mr. Morgan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has received from the project board running the Centre for Coding and Classification at Loughborough into the development of Read codes on the length of time it would take to produce a service strength product for use within the NHS; and if he will make a statement. [27626]

  Mr. Horam
  Version 2 of Read is already in widespread use. Version 3 will reach service strength at different dates for different application areas. For the majority of specialities in the acute sector, service strength is expected by the end of this year. The centre's supervisory board which meets quarterly receives regular reports on all developments and has approved the timetable.
  608
  Mr. Morgan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list for each financial year the expenditure on capital and revenue on the development of Read codes; how many hospitals are participating in the pilot exercise and what their response has been to date; when he proposes to submit the project for independent evaluation; and if he will make a statement. [27829]

  Mr. Horam
  The cost of developing version 3 of the Read codes is as follows:

  Revenue

  Capital

  1992–93

  £1.1 million

  Nil

  1993–94

  £2.1 million

  Nil

  1994–95

  £0.5 million

  Nil

  Total

  £3.7 million

  The nature of the Read terms is that new terms are added regularly through a maintenance process. This aspect of developments costs:

  Revenue

  Capital

  1994–95

  £0.7 million

  Nil

  1995–96

  £0.7 million

  Nil

  Total

  £1.4 million

  The version 3 Read code partnership programme commenced in mid-1995 and involved 14 sites—a further 30 sites have expressed interest in participating in the programme. We are aware of an additional 15 non-partnership sites which are using or about to use version 3 of the Read codes. These assessments in use comprise evaluation. An evaluation beyond this is not planned.

  Mr. Morgan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the representations from other Government Departments in relation to the urgency of the re-evaluation of the Read codes system and the Centre for Coding and Classification in Loughborough. [27828]

  Mr. Horam
  Contacts with Government Departments in Scotland and Wales on Read codes are long standing and continuing.

  On 7 March, the Welsh Office expressed concerns about the project at Withybush hospital. Several meetings have since taken place and these concerns have been addressed. The project is continuing.

  EU Directives
  Mr. Steen
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the directives which have affected his Department in each of the past three years and(a) the United Kingdom legislation introduced as a result of the directives, (b) the United Kingdom legislation which goes beyond the minimum standards set out in the directives and (c) the clauses within each piece of United Kingdom legislation which amplify the minimum standards set out in the directives. [27077]
  609
  Mr. Horam
  [holding answer 29 April 1996]In the last three years, three directives have affected this Department. These, and the implementing legislation, are as follows:

  Directive

  Implementing Legislation

  93–39 New Licensing system for human medicines

  The Medicines for Human Use (Marketing Authorisation etc.) Regulation 1994 (SI 1994 No 3144)

  93–42 Council Directive on Medical Devices

  Medical Devices Regulations 1995 (SI 1994 No 3017) The Active Implantable Medical Devices (Amendment and Transitional Provisions Regulations) (SI 1995 No 1671)

  93–43 Hygiene of foodstuffs

  Food safety (General Food Hygiene) Regulations 1995 (SI 1995 No 1763)

  None of the implementing legislation amplifies the minimum standards set in the directive.

  Abortion
  Ms Harman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what has been the change in the abortion rate since 18 October 1995. [27128]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  I have been asked to reply.

  Data to monitor abortion rates since October 1995 are currently being processed and are not available for release. The December 1995 quarterly monitor on legal abortions performed in England and Wales, which is

  Remploy Limited: Board appointments and tenure

  Name

  Title

  Start of contract

  End of contract

  David Heywood

  Chairman

  9 September 1993

  8 September 1996

  Anthony Withey

  Chief Executive

  15 October 1994

  4 October 1998

  Len Boulton

  Executive Director

  1 January 1996

  30 June 1999

  Raymond Fletcher

  Executive Director

  1 January 1996

  30 April 1999

  Kenneth Taylor

  Executive Director

  1 April 1996

  31 March 2000

  Derek Boothman

  Non-Executive Director

  10 September 1995

  9 September 1998

  Roy Jackson

  Non-Executive Director

  2 September 1995

  1 September 1998

  John Ramsay

  Non-Executive Director

  9 September 1995

  8 September 1998

  Ann Roberts

  Non-Executive Director

  21 August 1993

  20 August 1996

  David Winterbottom

  Non-Executive Director

  12 December 1994

  11 December 1997

  Mr. Tipping
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many of the directors of Remploy have a background or professional qualification in accountancy. [27409]

  Mr. Paice
  Four.

  Mr. Tipping
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans she has to alter the balance of membership of the board of directors of Remploy in order to increase the number of members with a trade union background. [27408]

  Mr. Paice
  None.

  Jobseeker's Allowance
  Mr. Hinchliffe
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what estimates she has made of (i) the number of persons who will be disallowed jobseeker's allowance as a result of(a) voluntary
  610
  expected to be published on 27 June, will include new statistics on the number of abortions each month and also comparisons with previous years.

  Spongiform Encephalopathy Research
  Mr. Shore
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what investigations he has(a) commissioned and (b) evaluated to establish whether the BSE infective agent can be transmitted directly from a cow to its calf; what was the conclusion of that research; and if he will make a statement. [24472]

  Mrs. Browning
  I have been asked to reply.

  I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Edinburgh, East (Dr. Strang) on 25 April 1996, Official Report, column 274.

EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT

  Remploy
  Mr. Tipping
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many of the directors of Remploy(a) have a trade union background and (b) were nominated by trade union bodies. [27404]

  Mr. Paice
  One

  Mr. Tipping
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment when each of the directors of Remploy was appointed; and when their terms of appointment expire. [27405]

  Mr. Paice
  The information is as follows:

  unemployment and (b) failure to follow jobseeker's directions, (ii) the number of such persons who will receive reduced benefit and (iii) the number who will have no benefit entitlement in the first two weeks of a jobseeker's allowance sanction. [26439]

  Mr. Forth
  I have made no such estimates. Decisions on disallowance of jobseeker's allowance will be made by independent adjudication officers.

  Training and Enterprise Councils
  Mr. Morgan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment, pursuant to his answer of 29 April,Official Report, column 349, if the training provider companies named in the letter sent to regional offices all have the same parent company. [27845]
  611
  Mr. Paice
  The letter sent to regional offices included commercially sensitive information. It would be inappropriate for me to make any further comment on the contents of that letter.

  Modern Apprenticeships
  Mr. Byers
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment (1) how many people are presently on modern apprenticeships; and how many have successfully completed a modern apprenticeship since its inception; [27800]

  (2) if she will list for each TEC the number of people presently on modern apprenticeship courses; [27805]

  (3) how many people are presently studying for a modern apprenticeship for each occupational area; [27804]

  (4) if she will list the number of modern apprenticeships in each training and enterprise council for each occupational area. [27806]

  Mr. Paice
  As the reply will consist of a large amount of data, I will write to the hon. Member and place a copy of my reply in the Library.

  Tottenham B Jobcentre
  Mr. Bernie Grant
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment (1) what are the implications of the inaccuracy of the April figures for vacancies at the Tottenham B jobcentre for estimates of employment trends in(a) the Tottenham Constituency and (b) nationally; [27881]

  (2) when accurate figures for vacancies at the Tottenham B jobcentre will be released; [27880]

  (3) what assessment she has made of the accuracy of the figures released on 17 April by the Central Statistical Office in respect of job vacancies at the Tottenham B jobcentre on 8 March; where the vacancies are; and what are the implications of the new computer system for the accuracy of the figures. [27879]

  Mr. Forth
  Responsibility for the subject of the questions has been delegated to the Employment Service agency under its chief executive. I have asked him to arrange for a reply to be given.

  Letter from Robert Home to Mr. Bernie Grant, dated 2 May 1996:
  The Secretary of State has asked me, in the absence on leave of the Chief Executive, to reply to your questions relating to the figure for Unfilled Vacancies at Tottenham "B" Jobcentre which was published in the Greater London "First Release" on 17 April 1996.
  During the changeover to the new Labour Market System (the new Employment Service system for client and vacancy records) an incorrect figure was generated for this office. Clearly the published figure of 1,062 is about 1,000 too high. It has not yet been possible to pinpoint the cause of the error but urgent steps are being taken to do this, and to prevent a similar occurrence in the future. I will write to you again with a fuller explanation when we have it.
  In the meantime I would like to apologise for the confusion which this must have caused.

OVERSEAS DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION

  China
  Ms Lynne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to ensure that United Kingdom aid is not used to subsidise coerced abortion and sterilisation in China. [27088]

  Mr. Hanley
  All UK bilateral aid to China has clear objectives. Our projects aim to guarantee good water supplies, to strengthen transport infrastructure, to assist with China's severe environmental problems, to improve English language teaching and to promote good government. Projects are carefully designed and monitored to ensure that UK aid is used for the purposes intended. No bilateral aid gives any support to China's family planning programmes. Projects and programmes in China funded by the International Planned Parenthood Federation, IPPF, and the United Nations Fund for Population Activities, UNFPA, are subject to equally close supervision. Annual spending by IPPF and UNFPA in China is equivalent to less than 0.8 per cent. of the sum spent annually by China on its family planning programmes.

  Ms Lynne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what specific steps he has taken to ensure that the financial, technical and management resources available through the United Nations Fund for Population Activities do not enable the Chinese authorities to enforce coercive population control programmes more vigorously; and if he will make a statement. [27009]

  Mr. Hanley
  We regularly discuss with, and advise, senior officials of the UNFPA on matters concerning its current activities and future plans in China. As a result of this dialogue, we are satisfied that the activities that UNFPA currently funds in China do not in any way encourage coercive practices, but have promoted the health and welfare of Chinese women and children, especially in poorer regions of the country. UNFPA's current programme is approaching completion. Any new UNFPA programme in China would be subject to approval by the fund's governing body. If necessary, the UK Government, in partnership with like-minded board members and observers, will use this additional mechanism to influence the outcome of a future decision relating to a new UNFPA programme in China and to ensure that any such programme is fuily consistent with the programme of action of the international conference on population and development agreed in Cairo in September 1994.

  Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti
  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received on the well-being of Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, president-elect of the Nigerian Medical Association; and whether he has made representations for his release from prison. [27091]

  Mr. Hanley
  We are aware of reports that Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti's health is deteriorating in Katsina prison. Our high commission in Lagos is in regular contact with members of the Ransome-Kuti family and the Nigerian Medical Association. We have raised our concerns about
  613
  Dr. Ransome-Kuti, and other human rights activists in detention, with the Nigerian authorities and continue to press for their release.

  HIV-AIDS
  Mr. Martyn Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what percentage of the UK aid committed for reproductive health in the years 1994 and 1995 was allocated to HIV-AIDS projects in overseas countries. [27093]

  Mr. Hanley
  Some 21 per cent.—£39.3 million—of total UK aid commitments in 1994 and 1995 for improved reproductive health—£184 million—was allocated specifically for HIV-AIDS projects and programmes, including the provision of condoms. In addition, a significant number of reproductive health projects approved during this period include prevention of HIV transmission as one of several objectives.

SCOTLAND

  Cairngorm Funicular Railway
  Mr. Galbraith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment he has made of the correspondence from the International Union for Conservation of Nature on the Cairngorm funicular; and if he will make a statement. [27090]

  Mr. Kynoch
  My right hon. Friend has received three letters from the International Union for Conservation of Nature on the proposal to construct a funicular railway on Cairngorm. He has advised them that the application is currently before Highland Council, as planning authority, but should the matter come before him for determination, their views would be taken into account.

  Dunblane School Inquiry
  Mr. William Ross
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will place in the Library the daily and weekly transcripts of evidence and copies of submissions made to the Dunblane school inquiry. [27150]

  Lord James Douglas-Hamilton
  Transcripts of evidence prepared for, and submissions made to, the tribunal are provided for the purpose of assisting the chairman of and parties to the tribunal. It would not be appropriate to lodge these documents in the Library.

  Housing
  Dr. Godman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) if he will list for each district and islands council the total number of dwelling completions in the categories of(a) housing association for rent, (b) housing association shared ownership, (c) housing association improvement for sale, (d) GRO grant for rent, (e) GRO grant for home ownership and (f) total approved development programme under the Scottish Homes approved development programme; [26538]

  (2) if he will detail for each district and islands council area for 1995–96 the total public expenditure within the Scottish Homes approved development programme on (a) housing association for rent, (b) housing association
  614
  shared ownership, (c) housing association improvement for sale, (d) GRO grant for rent, (e) GRO grant for home ownership and (f) total ADP. [26537]

  Mr. Raymond S. Robertson
  The information requested is held by Scottish Homes. I have asked its chairman, Mr. John Ward, to write to the hon. Member.

  Travelling People
  Mr. Maclennan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, pursuant to his answer of 23 April,Official Report, column 124, if he will list the name or location of each private site, the number of pitches it provides and the district in which it is situated. [27638]

  Mr. Raymond S. Robertson
  The pitches provided on private sites are located on farms, crofts and touring caravan sites and vary from time to time. I regret that detailed information about their location is not recorded centrally, but I understand that Highland council is currently considering whether to keep such a record.

  Mr. J. W. Steven
  Mr. Maclennan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when the hon. Member for Caithness and Sutherland will receive a substantive reply to his letter dated 4 October 1995 to the Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and the Environment about the case of Mr. J. W. Steven of Philips Main farm, Mey. [27639]

  Mr. Raymond S. Robertson
  My noble Friend the Under-Secretary of State has asked his officials to examine very carefully the case to which the hon. Member refers. He will send a full reply as soon as this detailed consideration is complete, and hopes to be in a position to do so within the next fortnight.

  Oral Contraceptives
  Mr. Simon Hughes
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he was consulted in his capacity as a member of the licensing authority prior to the issuing of a letter dated 18 October 1995 relating to oral contraceptives containing desogestrel and gestodene. [26575]

  Lord James Douglas-Hamilton
  [holding answer 25 April 1996]: I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Minister for Health on 25 April, Official Report, column 281, stating that disclosure of such information would be in breach of long-established convention.

TREASURY

  Prompt Payment Code
  Mr. Harvey
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer which Government Departments have signed up to the Confederation of British Industry's prompt payment code and on what dates; and if he will make a statement. [26615]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  The following Government Departments and agencies have signed up to the CBI prompt payment code to date:

  Agricultural Development Advisory Service

  Crown Prosecution Service

  Cabinet Office

  615

  Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency

  Central Office of Information

  Charity Commission

  Chessington Computer Centre

  Civil Service College

  Civil Service Occupational Health and Safety Agency

  HM Customs and Excise

  Defence Bills Agency (Ministry of Defence)

  Department for Education and Employment

  Department of the Environment

  Department of Health

  Department of National Heritage

  Department of Social Security

  Department of Trade and Industry

  Employment Service

  Foreign and Commonwealth Office

  Government Actuary's Department

  Government Property Lawyers

  Her Majesty's Stationery Office

  Health and Safety Executive

  Home Office

  Inland Revenue

  HM Land Registry

  Legal Secretariat to the Law Officers

  Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

  NHS Executive

  National Investment and Loans Office

  Department of National Savings

  Office of Electricity Regulation

  Office of Fair Trading

  Office of Gas Supply

  Paymaster Agency

  Office of Telecommunications

  Overseas Development Administration

  Property Advisers to the Civil Estate

  HM Prison Service

  Privy Council Office

  Recruitment and Assessment Services

  Royal Mint

  Scottish Office

  Security Facilities Executive

  Serious Fraud Office

  HM Treasury

  Treasury Solicitor's Department

  United Kingdom Passport Agency

  Welsh Office

  The dates on which Departments signed up to the code are not held centrally.

  Late Payments
  Mrs. Roche
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what percentage of bills were paid late by his Department in 1995–96. [26125]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  [holding answer 24 April 1996]: This information is being collated by the Department of Trade and Industry and will be published by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade before the summer recess.

  Financial Services Act
  Mr. David Nicholson
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to his answer of 12 March,Official Report, column 549, about section 47 of the Financial Services Act 1986, who, other than an investor, has a duty to inform the prosecuting authorities when they have identified a breach of section 47; and what policy he has adopted since 1988 to ensure that the Securities and Investments Board, is able to identify breaches of section 47. [26976]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  No one has a specific duty to give prosecuting authorities information of the kind described. The Securities and Investments Board has no power to prosecute offences under section 47. Any procedures it has for identifying breaches of that section are operational matters for SIB.

  Economic and Monetary Union
  Mr. Spearing
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what(a) treaty and (b) other obligations Her Majesty's Government have in respect of attaining the criteria for economic and monetary convergence under phase 2 of the plans for economic and monetary union; and which of those obligations would remain if the United Kingdom did not proceed to phase three of those plans when others did so. [27117]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  The four criteria for economic and monetary convergence mentioned in article 109(j) of the EC treaty, and developed further in protocol No. 6 on the convergence criteria, do not prescribe legal obligations. The United Kingdom is under no treaty or other obligations to attain the criteria.

  Works of Art
  Mr. Wilson
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the membership of the Advisory Committee on Conditionally Exempt Works of Art. [27116]

  Mr. Jack
  There is no advisory committee on conditional exemption from inheritance tax for works of art. The Inland Revenue seek advice from the keepers and curators of the appropriate national collections about the suitability of any particular items for the purposes of the exemption.

  Income Tax
  Mr. Forman
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what would be the estimated full-year costs at 1996–97 income levels of introducing an income tax structure of two positive rates at 20 per cent. and at 40 per cent., assuming transferable personal allowances of £5,000 per person, existing tax threshold for each of the two positive rates, and the abolition of all other tax expenditures, exemptions and reliefs now allowable against income tax. [27233]

  Mr. Jack
  The estimated full-year cost of introducing two rates of 20 per cent. for taxable income up to £25,500 and 40 per cent. for taxable income over £25,500 at 1996–97 income levels would be about £3 billion, assuming a personal allowance of £5,000 transferable between spouses and the abolition of all other income tax allowances, and mortgage interest relief, tax relief on employee's contributions to occupational and personal pension
  617
  schemes, reliefs for tax-exempt special savings accounts, personal equity plans, TESSAs, PEPs and profit-related pay, national savings certificates, employee share schemes and charitable giving.

  This estimate does not take into account the substantial behavioural effects which might result from the introduction of such a change; nor does it allow for any subsequent changes to the tax system, such as changes to tax relief on employer's contributions to pension schemes or relief for investment income in pension funds.

  European Central Bank
  Mr. Llew Smith
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list each of the proposed responsibilities and functions of the European Central bank, indicating when these powers will enter into force; and if he will list the legal opportunities available to EU member state Governments or other EU institutions to change the statute of the ECB. [27347]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  Article 105(1) of the EC treaty provides that the"primary objective of the ESCB"

  —The European system of central banks, consisting of the European central bank and participating national central banks—
  "shall be to maintain price stability".

  It also states that, without prejudice to this objective, the ESCB shall support other Community policies and objectives.

  Article 105(2) provides that the basic tasks of the ESCB shall be
  "to define and implement the monetary policy"

  of the single currency area,
  "to conduct foreign exchange operations … to hold and manage the official foreign reserves of member states",

  and
  "to promote the smooth operation of payment systems".

  Article 105(4) provides for the European central bank to be consulted and to submit opinions. Article 105(5) states that the ESCB shall
  "contribute to the smooth conduct of policies pursued by the competent authorities relating to the prudential supervision of credit institutions and the stability of the financial system".

  The functions of the ECB in relation to banknotes and coins are prescribed by article 105a.

  The statute of the ESCB, forming protocol No. 3 to the EC treaty, makes further provision in relation to functions of the ECB.

  Article 1091 prescribes the process for the establishment of the ECB. the European Council in Madrid in December 1995 agreed a timetable for the introduction of the single currency which anticipates the ECB being set up during 1998, and carrying out preparatory work from that date, so that the ESCB can start to fulfil its tasks and meet its objectives from the start of the third stage of economic and monetary union on the date set out in the treaty of 1 January 1999.

  Article 41 of the statute of the ESCB provides for certain articles of the statute to be amended by the Council of Ministers, acting by a qualified majority on a unanimous recommendation from the governing council
  618
  of the ECB and after consulting the Commission, or acting unanimously on a proposal from the Commission and after consulting the ECB. In either case, the assent of the European Parliament would be required. The articles in question deal in particular with the collection of statistical material, central bank accounts, monetary policy instruments and operations, banking and external operations, administration, and the allocation of monetary income and profits. Other changes to the statute would require amendment of the treaty.

  Multiple Births
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many sets of(a) twins, (b) triplets, (c) quadruplets, (d) quintuplets and (e) sextuplets were born in England and Wales in each year from 1990 to 1995; and if he will make a statement. [27416]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  Available data requested are shown in the table. I will write to the hon. Member when figures for 1995 become available in late May or June.

  Maternities in England and Wales with multiple births

  1990

  1991

  1992

  1993

  1994

  Twins

  7,934

  8,160

  8,314

  8,302

  8,451

  Triplets

  201

  208

  202

  234

  260

  Quadruplets

  10

  10

  8

  12

  8

  Quintuplets

  —

  2

  1

  —

  —

  Sextuplets

  —

  —

  —

  1

  —

  The figures cover both live and stillborn children.

  No. 11 Downing Street
  Mr. Hall
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what charges are made for the use of No. 11 Downing street for charitable or other fund-raising events; and what use is made of the catering and other facilities of No. 11 Downing street at such events. [27780]

  Mr. Kenneth Clarke
  There is no charge for using No. 11 Downing street for charitable or other fundraising events. The costs of providing security cover are met by the Treasury for charitable events only if cover is deemed necessary.

  Event organisers are allowed to use the kitchen facilities for catering purposes, as well as the standard function facilities such as the state room, Soane dining room, and ground floor meeting room.

  Mr. Hall
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what are the rules governing the use of No. 11 Downing street for non-official purposes. [27779]

  Mr. Clarke
  Ministers in this and previous Governments have been allowed to hold non-official functions at No.11 Downing street at their own expense or at the expense of the event organisers. Appropriate arrangements are required for security clearance.

  Economic Growth
  Mr. Malcolm Bruce
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his current estimate of the likely growth of the United Kingdom economy in 1996; what it
  619
  was before the release of the United Kingdom first quarter growth estimates; and if he will make a statement. [27795]

  Mr. Waldegrave
  The Government's last forecast was set out in the November "Financial Statement and Budget Report."

  The good performance of the UK economy is containing and output has risen in every quarter for the past four years. The Government's economic policies are delivering continuing growth, low inflation and rising prosperity.

  Commemorative Coins
  Mr. Matthew Banks
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans her Majesty's Government have to issue new commemorative coins. [28163]

  Mr. Kenneth Clarke
  To commemorate the 25th anniversary of decimalisation, the Royal Mint will issue 25, 000 sets of seven silver proof coins, up to and including the £1 coin. The coins will feature the 1996 designs and will be available as specially packaged sets.

  Education Trusts
  Mr. Corbett
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the estimated annual increase in revenue from the decision to end tax relief for education trusts established to meet private school fees, from April 1997. [25584]

  Mr. Jack
  [holding answer 19 April 1996]: The Charity Commission has been conducting an inquiry into certain education trusts which operate school fees schemes. It has concluded that the trusts are not truly charitable and proposes to remove them from the register of charities. Where the trusts lose their charitable status they will no longer be entitled to charitable tax reliefs. However, tax relief will not be withdrawn until 1 April 1997 and the Government are reviewing the implications of the change. The revenue yield at stake is likely to be negligible.

  Copyright
  Mr. Maclennan
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress his Department has made towards obtaining a photocopying licence from the Copyright Licensing Agency to ensure compliance with copyright law. [26714]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  [holding answer 25 April 1996]: The Treasury is currently negotiating terms of the photocopying licence prepared by the Copyright Licensing Agency Ltd.

  Employment Statistics
  Mr. Gapes
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people were in employment in Great Britain in spring 1990; and how many were in employment in winter 1995.[27407]

  Mrs. Angela Knight
  [holding answer 1 May 1996]: Information from the labour force survey shows that there were 26,421,000 people in employment in Great Britain at spring 1990. The corresponding number for winter 1995–96 is 25,680,000.

NORTHERN IRELAND

  Elections
  Mr. Bellingham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he next expects to meet representatives of different political parties to discuss the forthcoming election. [26388]

  Sir Patrick Mayhew
  My right hon. Friend the Member for Devizes (Mr. Ancram) met representatives from the Progressive Unionist party last Friday and further preliminary consultations with the parties in Northern Ireland are currently being considered. We have undertaken to discuss issues relating to the negotiations and the deliberative forum with the relevant parties.

  Tourism
  Mr. Nigel Evans
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what estimate he has made of the number of tourists from the United States of America who visited Northern Ireland in 1995. [26391]

  Mr. Ancram
  The total number of tourists from the United States of America who visited Northern Ireland in 1995 was 83,000 which represents an increase of 54 per cent. on 1994. Within this total, the number of pure holiday visitors increased by 114 per cent. from 22,000 in 1994 to 47,000 in 1995.

  Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
  Mr. William Ross
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what further steps he intends to take to deal with BSE in Northern Ireland. [26392]

  Sir Patrick Mayhew
  The Department of Agriculture will be working to ensure that the substantial schemes already put in place by Government start as soon as possible in Northern Ireland and that available funds reach farmers and meat plants as soon as possible.

  Family Policy
  Mrs. Ann Winterton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on family policy in Northern Ireland. [26394]

  Mr. Moss
  The Department of Health and Social Services chairs an inter-departmental group on social policy issues in Northern Ireland, and part of its remit is to maximise the contribution of public policies to supporting family life. Specific policy initiatives have been taken in the areas of domestic violence and early years provision. Northern Ireland is represented on the Government's family law and administration working party.

  Peace Process
  Mr. Canavan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement about the development of the peace process. [26395]

  Mr. Hain
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on progress in the peace process. [26401]

  Mrs. Gorman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the proposed election process in Northern Ireland. [26383]
  621
  Sir Patrick Mayhew
  The Northern Ireland (Entry to Negotiations, etc.) Bill received Royal Assent on 29 April. Later today I expect to make the order directing the holding of elections on 30 May in Northern Ireland which will lead directly to all-party negotiations on 10 June.

  Mr. David Shaw
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the opportunity for all adults in Northern Ireland to participate in the peace process. [26400]

  Sir Patrick Mayhew
  All adults who are eligible to vote may do so in the elections on 30 May. They will be able to vote for the party which they wish to represent them in the all-party negotiations and in the forum.

  Police White Paper
  Ms Church
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the Government intend to publish their White Paper on policing in Northern Ireland. [26397]

  Sir John Wheeler
  I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Islington, North (Mr. Corbyn) earlier today.

  Examination Results
  Mr. Harry Greenway
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many pupils in number and as a percentage of their age group achieved grades A to C in the general certificate of secondary education or 0-level(a) in the past year, (b) 10 and (c) 20 years ago; and if he will make a statement. [26399]

  Mr. Ancram
  In 1995–96,76.3 per cent.—19,263—of pupils in year 12 (aged 15 at the start of the school year) achieved grades A to C in GCSE. Comparable figures for 10 and 20 years ago are not available as the information on qualifications was collected only for school leavers. Comparisons on the qualifications of school leavers show that in 1994–95,75.5 per cent.—18,516—of school leavers achieved grades A to C at GCSE, 57.6 per cent.—15,468—achieved grades A to C at GCE O-level in 1985–86 and 45.3 per cent.—10,976—achieved grades A to C at GCE O-level in 1974–75.

  Marches
  Mr. Connarty
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he intends to take to minimise tensions between the two communities in Northern Ireland during the coming marching season. [26402]

  Sir John Wheeler
  The management of parades is a complex issue which requires much patience and hard work for all concerned.

  The routing of parades is an operational matter for the Chief Constable and I believe such decisions are best left to him. The RUC handle the issue of parades very well, focussing on negotiating with local residents' groups and parade organisers in an attempt to reach agreement.

  It should be remembered, however, that, in over 3,000 parades in 1995, in only a small handful was there disorder.

  Mr. McAvoy
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what proposals he has to establish a mechanism which would seek community consent for the routing of traditional marches and parades. [26396]
  622
  Sir John Wheeler
  There are no plans to change present procedures under which the routing of parades is a matter for the police, where necessary after consultation with both march organisers and local people. It is worth remembering that in over 3,000 parades in 1995 only a few resulted in disorder.

  Flags
  Mr. Nicholas Winterton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is his policy in respect of flying the Union Jack flag on Royal Ulster Constabulary police stations. [26403]

  Sir John Wheeler
  The Chief Constable of the RUCis responsible for regulations on the flying of the Union flag on RUCstations, contained in the RUCcode. The Government have no plans to change the policy on flying the Union flag on Government buildings.

  Special Housing
  Mr. William O'Brien
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what provision is made in the capital allowances for housing purposes in Northern Ireland for special facilities for elderly people and people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement. [26404]

  Mr. Moss
  The Northern Ireland Housing Executive assesses overall housing need each year, including the needs of the elderly and the disabled. New house building programmes and programmes to improve or adapt existing stock are then drawn up by the executive, and also by housing associations which have concentrated on special housing needs. It is estimated that in 1995–96, some £5 million was spent on capital expenditure for the disabled. In addition some £4 million was paid under the provisions of disabled facilities grant.

  Cancer
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many registered cases of cancer there were in Northern Ireland in(a) 1985, (b) 1989, (c) 1992 and (d) 1995; and if he will make a statement. [27031]

  Mr. Moss
  This information is not presently available. A major initiative by the Northern Ireland cancer registry is currently under way to produce reliable information on diagnosed cancer cases.

NATIONAL HERITAGE

  Taylor Report (Implementation)
  Ms Walley
  To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage if she will list by division those football clubs which do not meet the requirements of the Taylor report together with the length of time dispensation has been granted and the target date for meeting the requirements. [26527]

  Mr. Sproat
  Of the recommendations of the Taylor report which were implemented by the Government, the only outstanding requirement which needs to be met by clubs relates to all-seater stadiums. In the premier league
  623
  Bolton do not meet the all-seater requirement and in the first division Stoke City, Port Vale, Reading, Sunderland and Portsmouth do not meet the requirement.

  The report recommended that clubs in the FA premier league and the division one of the football league should become all-seater by the start of the 1994 season. However, the Secretary of State is empowered to extend by one year at a time the date for clubs to meet the requirement following consultation with the Football Licensing Authority, which in turn consult the relevant local authorities. Sunderland and Portsmouth have been given two one-year extensions and have until the start of the 1996 season to comply.

  Clubs also have three years from the date of their promotion to the first division to develop all-seater stadiums. Consequently, Stoke City and Bolton were promoted in 1993, have until the start of the 1996 season to meet the requirements; and Port Vale and Reading, which were promoted in 1994, have until the start of the 1997 season.

  Playing Fields
  Mr. Pendry
  To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what steps the Government are taking to implement their commitment in "Raising the Game" to protect playing fields in relation to transferring unused British Coal recreational sites to the National Playing Fields Association. [27261]

  Mr. Sproat
  The Government's objective remains that British Coal land in active use for sport and recreation will be retained for those purposes. I understand that discussions are continuing with British Coal and the Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation as to how this can be best achieved. Those discussions will be concluded as soon as possible.

  Government Procurement (Access)
  Mrs. Roche
  To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what were the results of her Department's review of the first quarter of 1996 into measures to facilitate access to appropriate areas of Government procurement in the light of best practice. [27514]

  Mr. Sproat
  [holding answer 1 May 1996]: My Department and its two agencies will shortly commence a monitoring exercise to establish both the number of small and medium businesses invited to tender, and their success rate. If found necessary, this information will allow us to identify measures we can take to ensure that small and medium businesses can fully compete, where appropriate, with large companies.

  Small and Medium Businesses
  Mrs. Roche
  To ask the Secretary of State for National Heritage what proportion of her Department's budget was spent on procurement from small and medium enterprises in 1995–96. [27526]

  Mr. Sproat
  [holding answer 1 May 1996]: Neither my Department nor its agencies kept a specific record of a suppliers' size during 1995–96. The information could therefore be obtained only by incurring disproportionate
  624
  cost. My Department will keep a record of information relating to the size of the companies that it deals with in future.

WALES

  Small Businesses
  Mr. Barry Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiatives he has taken to assist small businesses in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [26823]

  Mr. Richards
  The Welsh Office supports small businesses directly and through the activities of a number of development agencies. The main programmes and associated funding in 1995–96 are:

  £ million

  Regional Enterprise Grants

  1.6

  SMART Scheme for innovation

  1.8

  SPUR Scheme

  1.0

  Business Growth and Start-Up Programme (operated by TECs)

  13.0

  The Department's overseas trade services branch also supported eight trade missions to 13 overseas markets in 1995–96, securing immediate orders worth £1.6 million and prospective orders worth £44 million. In addition, under the Department's simplified procedure for regional selective assistance, 53 grant offers to the value of £0.9 million were made to small firms.

  The Welsh Development Agency and the Development Board for Rural Wales operate a range of initiatives within their business services programmes which, in 1995–96, attracted estimated expenditure of £4.5 million.

  A most important recent initiative is business connect, launched in January by my right hon. Friend and which is designed specifically to help small firms access quickly and effectively the business support network.

  Organophosphate Poisoning
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans his Department has to fund a medical centre for Wales to carry out assessment of suspected organophosphate poisoning sufferers; and if he will make a statement. [26985]

  Mr. Richards
  There are no plans to fund such a centre.

  Assessments of suspected organophosphate poisoning can be carried out by general practitioners, who are able to obtain advice on diagnosis and treatment from the Welsh national poisons unit. It is also open to GPs to refer patients to hospital consultants.

  Sleeping Policemen
  Mr. Barry Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy concerning sleeping policemen; and if he will make a statement. [26867]
  625
  Mr. Gwilym Jones
  Regulations covering the use of sleeping policemen are contained in the Highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1990, the Traffic Calming Act 1992 and the Highways (Traffic Calming) Regulations 1993. Local authorities may consider the use of road humps, where appropriate, along with other measures, when considering traffic calming schemes. The regulations are currently being reviewed to make them less onerous and to remove the need for special authorisation of non-standard road humps. Local authorities will equally need to consider any adverse implications for the local street scene and environment from the provision of humps and similar.

  Further Education Funding
  Mr. Alex Carlile
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to allocate funding for pilot courses in areas related to public service for women in colleges of further education; and if he will make a statement. [27562]

  Mr. Hague
  The Further Education Funding Council for Wales is responsible for allocating funding to colleges of further education. For the current year, I have made £176 million available to the council.

  Wheelchairs
  Mr. Alfred Morris
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what are the unresolved issues being considered in respect of extending provision for outdoor powered wheelchairs and a voucher scheme for manual chairs for severely disabled people in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [27374]

  Mr. Richards
  I am currently seeking to establish the financial and operational implications of my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Health's announcement on 23 February. I hope shortly to be in a position to consider options for improvements to the wheelchair service in Wales.

  Respite Care
  Mr. Barry Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on his policy on respite care consequent upon the reform of local government. [26968]

  Children of school age (5 to 15) killed or injured on Welsh roads

  1993

  1994

  1995

  Killed

  Injured

  Total casualties

  Killed

  Injured

  Total casualties

  Killed

  Injured

  Total casualties

  Clwyd

  Alyn and Deeside

  —

  52

  52

  —

  48

  48

  —

  65

  65

  Colwyn

  —

  47

  47

  —

  50

  50

  1

  50

  51

  Delyn

  —

  52

  52

  2

  39

  41

  —

  65

  65

  Glyndwr

  —

  40

  40

  —

  20

  20

  1

  29

  30

  Rhuddlan

  3

  48

  51

  —

  34

  34

  —

  58

  58

  Wreham Maelor

  —

  59

  59

  —

  158

  158

  —

  63

  63

  Clwyd total

  3

  298

  301

  2

  349

  351

  2

  330

  332

  Dyfed

  Carmarthen

  —

  37

  37

  —

  45

  45

  —

  28

  28

  Ceredigion

  1

  37

  38

  —

  45

  45

  1

  39

  40

  626
  Mr. Richards
  Our policy on respite care remains the same. It is for local authorities, health authorities and GP fundholders to determine and meet the needs for respite care in their areas.

  Nearly £150 million is available to Welsh local authorities for community care, including respite care, in 1996–97. It is for those authorities to manage their resources to provide the care their local people need.

  The chief nursing officer and chief medical officer are also leading an initiative to improve palliative health care in Wales. One of the aims of the initiative is to ensure that everybody in Wales has access to an equally high standard of palliative care, including respite care for both patients and carers.

  Council Tax
  Mr. Ieuan Wyn Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales, pursuant to his answer of 11 March to the hon. Member for Meirionnydd Nant Conwy (Mr. Llwyd),Official Report, column 494, if he will now publish for each of the new unitary authorities and for Wales the (a) estimated council tax levels for each band per two-person household, (b) average council tax for each two-person household, (c) estimated revenue raised from council tax, (d) estimated revenue from all other sources and (e) column (c) expressed as a percentage of the total of columns (c) and (d). [27126]

  Mr. Gwilym Jones
  I refer to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Meirionnydd Nant Conwy (Mr. Llwyd) on 11 March,Official Report, column 494, and my letter of 1 April providing the information requested. A copy of the letter has been placed in the Library of the House.

  Schoolchildren (Road Accidents)
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many schoolchildren were(a) killed and (b) injured in road accidents in each of the last three years for which information is available, in each district and county council in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [27435]

  Mr. Gwilym Jones
  The information requested is given in the following table. The data refer to personal injury road accidents reported to the police and forwarded to the Welsh Office.
  627

  Children of school age (5 to 15) killed or injured on Welsh roads

  1993

  1994

  1995

  Killed

  Injured

  Total casualties

  Killed

  Injured

  Total casualties

  Killed

  Injured

  Total casualties

  Dinefwr

  —

  20

  20

  1

  30

  31

  —

  26

  26

  Llanelli

  —

  42

  42

  —

  55

  55

  —

  48

  48

  Preseli Pembrokeshire

  —

  26

  26

  1

  47

  48

  —

  33

  33

  South Pembrokeshire

  —

  95

  95

  —

  47

  47

  —

  29

  29

  Dyfed total

  1

  257

  258

  2

  269

  271

  1

  203

  204

  Gwent

  Blaenau Gwent

  —

  48

  48

  —

  46

  46

  —

  48

  48

  Islwyn

  —

  34

  34

  1

  35

  36

  —

  44

  44

  Monmouth

  —

  50

  50

  —

  59

  59

  —

  52

  52

  Newport

  —

  78

  78

  1

  88

  89

  2

  91

  93

  Torfaen

  1

  54

  55

  3

  41

  44

  —

  52

  52

  Gwent total

  1

  264

  265

  5

  269

  274

  2

  287

  289

  Gwynedd

  Aberconwy

  —

  41

  41

  —

  32

  32

  —

  32

  32

  Arfon

  1

  112

  113

  1

  36

  37

  —

  86

  86

  Dwyfor

  1

  12

  13

  —

  14

  14

  1

  20

  21

  Meirionydd

  —

  29

  29

  —

  39

  39

  —

  29

  29

  Ynys Mon

  —

  47

  47

  —

  33

  33

  —

  33

  33

  Gwynedd total

  2

  241

  243

  1

  154

  155

  1

  200

  201

  Mid Glamorgan

  Cynon Valley

  —

  31

  31

  —

  55

  55

  —

  31

  31

  Merthyr Tydfil

  1

  85

  86

  2

  87

  89

  1

  99

  100

  Ogwr

  —

  59

  59

  —

  79

  79

  1

  74

  75

  Rhondda

  1

  73

  74

  2

  58

  60

  —

  68

  68

  Rhymney Valley

  —

  62

  62

  1

  39

  40

  —

  66

  66

  Taff-Ely

  —

  36

  36

  —

  28

  28

  1

  33

  34

  Mid Glamorgan total

  2

  346

  348

  5

  346

  351

  3

  371

  374

  Powys

  Brecknock

  —

  32

  32

  —

  37

  37

  —

  26

  26

  Montgomeryshire

  —

  8

  8

  —

  13

  13

  —

  7

  7

  Radnorshire

  —

  18

  18

  —

  29

  29

  —

  26

  26

  Powys total

  —

  58

  58

  —

  79

  79

  —

  59

  59

  South Glamorgan

  Cardiff

  1

  189

  190

  1

  231

  232

  —

  187

  187

  Vale of Glamorgan

  2

  70

  72

  1

  63

  64

  —

  59

  59

  South Glamorgan total

  3

  259

  262

  2

  294

  296

  —

  246

  246

  West Glamorgan

  Port Talbot

  —

  34

  34

  —

  32

  32

  1

  27

  28

  Lliw Valley

  —

  40

  40

  1

  34

  35

  —

  32

  32

  Neath

  —

  47

  47

  —

  50

  50

  —

  41

  41

  Swansea

  —

  126

  126

  1

  125

  126

  —

  118

  118

  West Glamorgan total

  —

  247

  247

  2

  241

  243

  1

  218

  219

  Wales

  12

  1, 970

  1, 982

  19

  2, 001

  2, 020

  10

  1, 914

  1, 924

  Local Government Finance
  Mr. Barry Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he proposes to meet the leaders of each of the Welsh unitary authorities to discuss the impact of his financial settlement; and if he will make a statement. [28066]

  Mr. Hague
  Discussions of this sort are handled through the Welsh Local Government Association. On 22 April, the association announced it was not prepared 628
  to talk to me. On 24 April, it requested an early meeting to discuss the funding of local authorities in 1997–98. I will consider that request.

  Cancer Study
  Mrs. Clwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when his Department received the report published in 1993 by the Health and Safety Executive "Toxicity Review 28, Cancer Epidemiology in Coal Tar Pitch Volatile Associated Industries"; when it was published;
  629
  and what action was taken in response to the conclusion about the risk of death from cancers among workers in those industries. [27782]

  Mr. Richards
  This review was undertaken by the Health and Safety Executive. I understand that it was completed in October 1992 and the report published in 1993. The Welsh Office was not involved in the review and any action in response to the report's conclusions is a matter for the Health and Safety Executive.

  Mrs. Clwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when his Department received the report, "Mortality Study of Workers at a Patent Fuel Plant" published by the Institute of Occupational Medicine in 1987 relating to the furnacite plant in Cwnboi; when it was published; what action was taken in response to the report; and if he will make a statement on the incidence of cancer among former employees in the coking industry. [27784]

  Mr. Richards
  This report was not commissioned by the Welsh Office, and the Department was not sent a copy at the time of its publication.

  Table 1: Claimants of pension age in receipt of Supplementary Benefit/Income Support 1970–1995

  Thousands

  Claimants by DSS Administrative Regions

  1970

  1971

  1972

  1973

  1974

  1975

  1976

  1977

  1978

  1979

  1980

  1981

  Northern

  n/a

  n/a

  149

  142

  132

  111

  109

  110

  112

  110

  109

  106

  Yorkshire and Humberside

  n/a

  n/a

  198

  186

  189

  167

  167

  174

  173

  168

  169

  173

  Anglia

  n/a

  n/a

  170

  160

  157

  146

  150

  158

  157

  154

  152

  160

  London North

  n/a

  n/a

  176

  169

  168

  163

  164

  171

  171

  166

  169

  172

  London South

  n/a

  n/a

  206

  206

  196

  191

  189

  195

  196

  195

  193

  192

  London West

  n/a

  n/a

  155

  150

  136

  127

  130

  135

  140

  141

  133

  141

  South Western

  n/a

  n/a

  125

  123

  131

  126

  130

  134

  131

  136

  130

  128

  West Midlands

  n/a

  n/a

  172

  166

  163

  156

  158

  160

  164

  166

  164

  171

  North Western (Manchester)

  n/a

  n/a

  132

  127

  134

  124

  124

  130

  128

  127

  125

  127

  North Western (Merseyside)

  n/a

  n/a

  127

  124

  119

  114

  112

  116

  115

  112

  111

  118

  Wales

  n/a

  118

  115

  108

  104

  95

  97

  98

  98

  98

  93

  98

  Scotland

  n/a

  185

  185

  182

  178

  159

  155

  156

  153

  151

  144

  152

  Northern Ireland

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  58

  56

  56

  56

  United Kingdom

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  1, 795

  1, 779

  1, 750

  1, 794

  Thousands

  Claimants by DSS Administrative Regions

  1982

  1983

  1984

  1986

  1987

  1988

  1989

  1990

  1991

  1992

  North Eastern

  277

  261

  266

  267

  264

  —

  216

  232

  208

  222

  London North

  299

  284

  285

  294

  288

  —

  233

  237

  224

  238

  London South

  273

  245

  257

  271

  256

  —

  214

  220

  215

  213

  South Western

  132

  128

  135

  139

  137

  —

  114

  123

  110

  107

  Midlands

  301

  263

  265

  270

  285

  —

  224

  242

  222

  238

  North Western

  253

  234

  231

  234

  238

  —

  203

  211

  207

  210

  Wales

  96

  93

  93

  94

  98

  91

  86

  89

  81

  87

  Scotland

  150

  143

  150

  147

  160

  157

  141

  149

  138

  143

  Northern Ireland

  56

  55

  54

  51

  53

  60

  56

  58

  n/a

  53

  United Kingdom

  1, 837

  1, 705

  1, 737

  1, 768

  1, 780

  1, 599

  1, 487

  1, 560

  n/a

  1, 511

  Thousands

  Income Support claimants by Government Standard Statistical Region

  1992

  1993

  1994

  1995

  South East (Excluding London)

  222

  230

  232

  235

  London (inner and outer)

  178

  185

  187

  189

  North

  86

  96

  96

  97

  Yorkshire and Humberside

  145

  151

  154

  155

  630
  The Health and Safety Executive is responsible for securing the health, safety and welfare of persons at work. The Wales cancer registry does not hold data on the incidence of cancer among former employees in the coking industry.

  I understand that Bro Taf health authority has commissioned an investigation into cancer incidence amongst former employees of the furnacite plant.

SOCIAL SECURITY

  Benefits (Pensioners)
  Mr. Denham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many pensioners claimed(a) income support, (b) housing benefit and (c) council tax benefit in each region of the United Kingdom and in each year since 1970. [20184]

  Mr. Heald
  The available information relates to recipients and is given in the tables.
  631

  Thousands

  Income Support claimants by Government Standard Statistical Region

  1992

  1993

  1994

  1995

  East Midlands

  95

  100

  104

  104

  East Anglia

  51

  52

  52

  53

  South West

  106

  121

  121

  119

  West Midlands

  148

  157

  163

  164

  North West

  198

  212

  216

  218

  Wales

  87

  87

  90

  95

  Scotland

  143

  151

  153

  157

  Northern Ireland

  53

  58

  n/a

  n/a

  United Kingdom

  1, 511

  1, 599

  n/a

  n/a

  Table 2: Claimants of Pension Age in Receipt of Housing Benefit

  Thousands

  Housing Benefit Claimants by Government Standard Statistical Regions

  1992

  1993

  1994

  South East (Excluding London)

  280

  281

  282

  London (Inner + Outer)

  258

  263

  255

  North

  139

  133

  135

  Yorkshire and Humberside

  199

  210

  204

  East Midlands

  127

  129

  119

  East Anglia

  67

  67

  66

  South West

  122

  133

  126

  West Midlands

  189

  203

  187

  North West

  220

  220

  225

  Wales

  95

  92

  90

  Scotland

  247

  247

  243

  Northern Ireland

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  United Kingdom

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  Table 3: Claimants of pension age in receipt of council tax benefit

  Thousands

  Council Tax Benefit Claimants by Government Standard Statistical Regions

  1992

  1993

  1994

  South East (Excluding London)

  466

  438

  426

  London (inner + outer)

  314

  297

  295

  North

  201

  182

  183

  Yorkshire and Humberside

  310

  303

  292

  East Midlands

  224

  204

  189

  East Anglia

  110

  101

  100

  South West

  222

  213

  209

  West Midlands

  330

  290

  299

  North West

  376

  349

  356

  Wales

  144

  134

  134

  Scotland

  334

  296

  299

  Northern Ireland

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  United Kingdom

  n/a

  n/a

  n/a

  Notes:

  1. Supplementary benefit/income support data are not available for 1985 and 1988. Supplementary benefit information are not available by region prior to 1972. Supplementary benefit information for Northern Ireland is not available prior to 1978.

  2. Regions from 1970–1991 are DSS administrative. The boundaries for these regions changed in 1982. Data by Government standard statistical regions are available only from 1992.

  3. Housing benefit/community charge benefit is not available by region prior to 1992. Northern Ireland housing benefit/community charge benefit/council tax benefit data are not available.

  4. Income support replaced supplementary benefit in 1988.

  5. Community charge benefit was replaced by council tax benefit from April 1993.

  6. Pensioners have been defined as male claimants aged 65 or over and female claimants aged 60 or over for supplementary benefit/income support purposes. All claimants aged 60 or over have been treated as pensioners for housing benefit/council tax purposes.

  7. All numbers are rounded to the nearest thousand. Totals may not sum due to rounding.

  8. Housing benefit/council tax benefit figures exclude cases where entitlement was reduced to nil after a non-dependent deduction was made.

  Source:

  Supplementary benefits annual statistical inquiries 1970 to 1987, supplementary benefits (Northern Ireland) annual statistical inquiries 1978 to 1987, income support annual statistical inquiries May 1989 to 1993, income support quarterly statistical inquiries May 1994 and February 1995, income support annual statistical inquiries (Northern Ireland) 1988 to 1993, housing benefit management information system annual 1 per cent. sample May 1992 to 1994.
  632 633
  Sir Graham Bright
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will list the benefits(a) monetary and (b) in kind that are available to old-age pensioners. [20746]

  Mr. Heald
  The information is as follows:

  Monetary Benefits (including non-social Security Benefits)

  There are various qualifying conditions for these benefits—details of which are in Departmental leaflets available from Benefits Agency and Contributions Agency offices and post offices.

  Attendance Allowance.

  Disability Living Allowance.

  Invalid Care Allowance.

  Disability Working Allowance.

  Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.

  Reduced Earnings Allowance.

  Retirement Allowance.

  Workmen's Compensation Supplementation.

  Pneumoconiosis, byssinosis and miscellaneous disease benefits.

  Child Benefit.

  One Parent Benefit.

  Guardian's Allowance.

  Severe Disablement Allowance (SDA).

  Incapacity Benefit (I).

  Statutory Sick Pay (SAP).

  Housing Benefit.

  Council Tax Benefit (including CAB second Adult Rebates).

  Income Support (including higher premium rates for pensioners).

  Family Credit.

  The Social Fund.

  Unemployment Benefit.

  Retirement Pension.

  Widow's Benefit.

  War Pensions.

  Higher income tax allowances are available for pensioners.

  Pensioners Guaranteed Income Bond.

  Other help available

  Concessionary Travel Scheme.

  Free NHS eyesight test.

  Free NHS prescriptions.

  Free NHS dental treatment.

  Vouchers to help with the cost of glasses.

  Help with the cost of travelling to hospital for NHS treatment.

  Help with insulation costs through HEES.

  Meals on Wheels.

  Home Care Services.

  Day Care services.

  Provision of telephone from Social Services.

  Pensioner/pensioner households drawing income support/housing benefit/council tax benefit at May 1994

  Thousands

  Number

  Percentage of all pensioners

  Percentage of all pensioner households

  Pensioners

  4,297

  34

  —

  Pensioner households

  3,425

  —

  39

  634

  Special equipment and home adaptations.

  Special Housing.

  Laundry.

  A charge may be made for some of these services.

  Mr. Frank Field
  to ask the Secretary of State for Social security how many pensioners are currently claiming(a) income support only, (b) income support and housing benefit, (c) income support and council tax benefits, (d) income support, housing benefit and council tax benefit, (e) housing benefit only, (f) housing benefit and council tax benefit and (g) council tax benefit only. [27658]

  Mr. Roger Evans
  The available information is in the table.

  Thousands

  Benefit

  Pensioner households

  Income Support (IS) only

  455

  Housing Benefit (HB) only

  130

  Council Tax Benefit (CTB) only

  640

  IS and HB

  30

  IS and CTB

  380

  IS, HB and CTB

  900

  HB and CTB

  890

  All cases

  3, 425

  Notes:

  1. Figures are rounded to the nearest thousand. Due to rounding, totals may not sum.

  2. Pensioner households have been defined as benefit units—which may be a single person or a couple-where the claimant and/or partner is aged 60 or over.

  3. The number of pensioner households is based on the total number of benefit units.

  4. Housing benefit/council tax benefit figures exclude cases eligible for HB/CTB but whose entitlement was nil after non-dependant deductions were accounted for. CTB figures exclude second adult rebate cases.

  Source:

  1. Income support statistics quarterly inquiry May 1994.

  2. Housing benefit management information system annual 1 per cent. sample taken at the end of May 1994.

  3. Family resources survey 1994–95.

  Mr. Field
  To ask the secretary of State for Social Security if he will estimate in 1979 and at the latest available date the number of(a) pensioners and (b) pensioner households drawing either income support, or housing benefit—rent rebate or allowances—or council tax benefit—rate rebate; and if he will present these data for (a) and (b) as a percentage of (i) all pensioners and (ii) all pensioner households. [27660]

  Mr. Evans
  The information is not available in the format requested. Such information as is available is set out in the table.
  635

  Pensioner/pensioner households drawing supplementary benefit/income support in November 1979 and May 1994

  Thousands

  Number

  Percentage of all pensioners

  Percentage of all pensioner households

  1979

  1994

  1979

  1994

  1979

  1994

  Pensioners

  2,139

  2,047

  20

  19

  —

  —

  Pensioner households

  1,787

  1,765

  —

  —

  n/a

  20

  Notes:

  1. Comparable data on housing benefit and council tax benefit are not available for 1979. Prior to 1983, financial assistance with domestic rents and rates was provided under two separate schemes—supplementary benefit and the local authority rent rebate allowance and rent rebate schemes. Data on the local authority schemes are not available.

  2. Figures are rounded to the nearest thousand. Due to rounding totals may not sum.

  3. Pensioner households have been defined as benefit units—which may be a single person or a couple—where the claimant and/or partner is aged 60 or over.

  4. Pensioners have been defined as the number of people in pensioner benefit units, which may include some people aged under 60—that is, where the partner is aged 60 or over.

  5. The number of pensioner households is based on the total number of benefit units.

  6. Housing benefit/council tax benefit figures exclude cases eligible for HB/CTB but whose entitlement was nil after non-dependent deductions were accounted for. CTB figures exclude second adult rebate cases.

  Source:

  1. Income support statistics quarterly inquiry May 1994.

  2. Housing benefit management information system annual 1 per cent. sample taken at the end of May 1994.

  3. Family resources survey 1994–95.

  4. Supplementary benefit statistics annual inquiry 1979.

  5. Office of Population Censuses and Surveys.

  n/a=not available.

  Serco Ltd.
  Mr. Redmond
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what contracts his Department and his agencies have with Serco Ltd.; what is the current cost; when each contract ends; what are the penalties involved should he seek early termination of the contract; and if he will make a statement. [26686]

  Mr. Burt
  The information is not held centrally in the format requested and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

  The Department has many local budget holders who purchase services form contractors offering the best value for money and quality of service. There is no central record of purchases categorised by contractor. Such information as is available indicates that the Department has several contracts with Serco totalling between £5 million and £10 million.

  Estimated SERPS expenditure

  £ billion 1994–95 prices

  Year

  1994–95

  2000–01

  2010–11

  2020–21

  2030–31

  Pre-Social Security Act 1986 regime1

  1.8

  4.2

  12.0

  25.0

  41.0

  Pre-Pensions Act 1995 regime2

  1.8

  4.2

  9.2

  14.5

  18.7

  Post-Pensions Act 1995 regime2

  1.8

  4.2

  8.4

  10.9

  12.0

  1 Figures are approximations based on figures from the Social Security Bill 1986, report by the Government Actuary on the financial effects of the Bill on the national insurance fund, Cmnd 9711, allowing for an extra 5 million people contracted out in appropriate personal pensions, and the report by the Government Actuary on the financial effects of the Pensions Bill 1994 on the national insurance fund, Cm 2714. They assume price uprating of benefits and are in respect of retirement pensioners only.

  2 The figures are taken from the report by the Government Actuary on the financial effects of the Pensions Bill 1994 on the national insurance fund, Cm 2714, assuming price uprating of benefits and are in respect of retirement pensioners only.

  War Pensions Agency
  Sir Cranley Onslow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the steps taken by the War Pensions Agency to meet the conditions of its charter standard statement,
  636
  Departmental contracts contain a condition which deals with early termination. This allows, if appropriate, for contractors to be compensated for unavoidable costs arising from early termination, and for the Department to be similarly compensated if the termination is by the contractor. The costs would be wholly dependent on the particular circumstances and so no generally applicable cost can be given.

  Pensions
  Ms Corston
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security, pursuant to his answer of 14 March,Official Report, column 758, what would have been public spending on the state earnings-related pension scheme, assuming the legislation of the early 1980s had remained in force, in 1994–95,2000–01, 2010–11, 2020–21 and 2030–31 at 1994 prices. [26448]

  Mr. Heald
  The table gives the estimated state earnings-related pension scheme expenditure assuming that the Social Security Acts of 1986 and 1995 had not been introduced. For comparison, the table also includes the current estimates of SERPS expenditure.

  with particular reference to the answering of calls to its telephone helpline. [26879]

  Mr. Heald
  This is a matter for Kevin Caldwell, the chief executive of the War Pensions Agency. He will write to the hon. Member.
  637
  Letter from K. C. Caldwell to Sir Cranley Onslow, dated I May 1996:
  The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the steps we are taking to meet the conditions of our Charter Standard Statement with particular reference to answering calls to our telephone Helpline.
  Our Charter Standard Statement states "If you phone our Helpline we will answer your call within 30 seconds". These standards were set when the number of calls being presented to the Helpline was in the region of 10 to 11,000 per week. Calls are now averaging over 20,000 per week and, in spite of the increase, are being answered within an average of 38 seconds.
  To cope with the increase, the answerphone facility (originally installed for messages to be left outside office hours) was expanded to run throughout the working day, for messages to be left when all lines were busy. The volume of messages on the answerphone machine however grew to an unacceptable level, resulting in Helpline advisors spending too much time making call-backs to pensioners rather than being free to answer incoming calls direct.
  The machine was being accessed over 800 times daily, but only 40% of callers actually left a message. We conducted a survey of a random sample of callers. A great majority said they would rather wait a little longer in the queuing system than leave a message. We therefore now limit the usage of the answerphone to peak times only during the working day as well as evenings and weekends.
  All calls to our Helpline are routed via an automatic call distribution system. The system provides statistical information, to enable Helpline management to measure performance against Charter Standards and to tune the service.
  We have recently re-assessed the levels and flow of calls presented to the Helpline, and the staffing required to answer the calls. As a result we are now in the process of recruiting further advisors—part-timers who will help cover the daily peaks. We have also had a technical review of the service performed by the

  DLA1

  DWA

  IB2

  AA1

  SDA

  Cardiff and Vale District

  15,100

  58

  17,300

  9,800

  3,185

  Eastern Valleys District

  21,400

  78

  34,706

  9,400

  3,222

  Gwent Borders District

  14,000

  56

  18,052

  6,500

  2,090

  Gwyneddigion Maldwyn District

  10,100

  94

  14,570

  7,400

  2,453

  Mid Glamorgan District

  21,700

  82

  32,358

  11,000

  3,294

  Swansea Bay District

  21,300

  92

  32,844

  13,700

  3,462

  West Wales District

  14,700

  97

  20,461

  9,300

  2,516

  Wrexham and North Wales Coast District

  19,600

  107

  23,731

  13,000

  4,108

  These Figures are Provisional and subject to change. Figures for DLA/DWA are as at 29 February 1996.

  Figures for IB, AA, and SDA are as at 31 March 1996.

  1Figures based on source 5 per cent. data (Analytical Services Division), DLA includes both mobility and care components.

  2Includes 1B short term (lower), IB short term (higher) and IB long term.

  Incomes
  Mr. Steinberg
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) what percentage of the United Kingdom population lives on less than 50 per cent. of the national average income; [27382]

  (2) what percentage of the United Kingdom population lives on below national average income. [27381]

  Mr. Andrew Mitchell
  Statistics on patterns of household disposable income, for the United Kingdom as a whole, are provided in "Households Below Average Income 1979 to 1992–93", a copy of which is in the Library. The latest edition, published in June 1995 with minor revisions in October 1995, shows that, in 1992–93, 63 per cent. of the population had incomes below the national mean average, before housing costs and 62 per cent. had incomes below the mean, after housing costs. The 638
  Department's telecommunications experts. Several recommendations have already been implemented and we are considering whether when and how to implement others.
  We do regularly review the Helpline service, and as I have described, are making further changes to seek to improve it.
  I hope you find my reply helpful.

  Benefits (Disabled People)
  Mr. Llwyd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people in each Welsh constituency are currently in receipt of(a) disability allowance, (b) incapacity benefit, (c) attendance allowance, (d) invalid care allowance and (e) severe disablement allowance; and if he will make a statement. [27012]

  Mr. Burt
  The administration of benefits is a matter for Peter Mathison, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member.

  Letter from Peter Mathison to Mr. Elfyn Llwyd, dated 1 May 1996:
  The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking how many people in each Welsh constituency are currently in receipt of (a) Disability Allowance (b) Incapacity Benefit (IB) (c) Attendance Allowance (AA) (d) Invalid Care Allowance (ICA) and (e) Severe Disablement Allowance (SDA); and if he will make a statement.
  The information is not available in the format requested. Statistics are not kept which are specific to Parliamentary Constituencies, but are kept for Benefit Agency (BA) Districts. The attached annex gives details for Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Disability Working Allowance (DWA), IB, AA and SDA for the BA Districts in Wales. Information for ICA could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
  I hope you find this reply helpful.

  proportion of the population below 50 per cent. of the mean was 20 per cent. before housing costs and 25 per cent. after housing costs.

  Children (Poverty)
  Mr. Steinberg
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many children in the United Kingdom are classed as living in poverty. [27387]

  Mr. Andrew Mitchell
  There is no simple meaningful way to define or measure poverty. Statistics on patterns of household disposable income for the United Kingdom are provided in "Households Below Average Income 1979 to 1992–93", published in June 1995 with minor revisions in October 1995, a copy of which is in the Library. However, income is not always an accurate guide to living standards, especially among households in the lowest income deciles.

  Child Support Agency
  Ms Lynne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what tendering exercises he plans to initiate in the next three years in relation to the Child Support Agency computer system. [26818]

  Mr. Andrew Mitchell
  The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the chief executive, Miss Ann Chant. She will write to the hon. Member.

  Letter from Miss Ann Chant to Ms Liz Lynne, dated 1 May 1996:
  I am replying to your Parliamentary Question to the Secretary of State for Social Security about the Child Support Agency Computer System.
  The Agency is currently reviewing the information systems it uses. This includes an assessment of the potential impacts of the Departmental Change Programme. Once the whole review process has been concluded and the findings assessed, the Agency will be in a position to make decisions with regard to tendering exercises.
  I hope this is helpful.

  Ms Lynne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what changes are to be made to the Child Support Agency computer system in the next three years. [26856]

  Mr. Mitchell
  The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the chief executive Miss Ann Chant. She will write to the hon. Member.

  Letter from Miss Ann Chant to Ms Liz Lynne, dated 1 May 1996:
  I am replying to your Parliamentary Question to the Secretary of State for Social Security about the Child Support Agency Computer System.
  Current plans anticipate significant releases to make changes to the Child Support Computer System.
  The first will include the facility for automatic calculation of more of the maintenance assessment to speed up the assessment calculation process and assist in improving accuracy. Another will enable the maintenance assessment to be revised to reflect a Departure from the formula. In addition a planned enhancement to our accounting system will improve accuracy and provide our clients with more information about their maintenance accounts. These changes are scheduled to be introduced between now and April 1997.
  Plans for changes beyond that are not yet complete.
  I hope this is helpful.

  Income Support
  Ms Lynne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will list for each month since 1994 the number of former income support recipients who no longer receive income support as a result of the maintenance assessment made by the Child Support Agency exceeding the amount of income support in payment. [26784]

  Mr. Andrew Mitchell
  The administration of the Child Support Agency is a matter for the chief executive, Miss Ann Chant. She will write to hon. Member.

  Letter from Miss Ann Chant to Ms Liz Lynne, dated 1 May 1996:
  I am replying to your Parliamentary Question to the Secretary of State for Social Security about Child Support Agency maintenance assessments.
  640
  The table attached shows the monthly breakdown since April 1994 of the volume of former Income Support recipients who no longer receive Income Support as a result of the maintenance assessment made by the Agency exceeding the amount of Income Support in payment.
  I hope this is helpful.

  Income Support Claims Ceasing as a Result of Maintenance Assessments

  Period

  Number of Cessations

  1994

  April

  288

  May

  111

  June

  666

  July

  533

  August

  347

  September

  423

  October

  263

  November

  823

  December

  406

  1995

  January

  458

  February

  539

  March

  360

  April

  248

  May

  196

  June

  161

  July

  194

  August

  172

  September

  171

  October

  195

  November

  204

  December

  126

  1996

  January

  163

  February

  140

  March

  116

  Total

  7,303

  Benefit Fraud
  Mr. Frank Field
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what has been the counter-fraud target for benefit savings each year since 1992; and what have been the outcome data for each of these years. [27659]

  Mr. Heald
  The information is in the table.

  £ million

  Fraud savings target

  Fraud savings achieved

  1991–92

  383

  446.6

  1992–93

  460

  558.1

  1993–94

  557

  654

  1994–95

  632.5

  717.6

  1995–961

  1,000

  1,048

  1 (to 29 February 1996)

  The information provided in relation to fraud savings in 1991–92 corrects that given by my predecessor, my hon. Friend the Member for Wanstead and Woodford (Mr. Arbuthnot), in a written answer to the hon. Member for Stockton, North (Mr. Cook) on 18 May 1995, Official Report, column 329.

AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FOOD

  Serco Ltd.
  Mr. Redmond
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what contracts his Department and his agencies have with Serco Ltd.; what is the current cost; when each contract ends; what are the penalties involved should he seek early termination of the contract; and if he will make a statement. [26647]

  Mr. Boswell
  Centrally held records show that neither the Ministry nor any of its agencies hold contracts with Serco Ltd. However, between March 1994 and March 1996 the Ministry spent £24,801 with Serco on the supply of miscellaneous industrial goods. Consequently, there are no contract end dates or potential penalty fees. Fees for early discharge of contractual arrangements are a matter for negotiation between the Ministry and its suppliers.

  Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
  Mr. Alfred Morris
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has had in relation to BSE from the British Veterinary Association; what reply he is sending; what action he is taking; and if he will make a statement. [27141]

  Mrs. Browning
  Ministers and officials have had a number of contacts with the British Veterinary Association including a meeting chaired by my hon. Friend the Minister of State with the association and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons on 25 April. That was a useful meeting and we have taken into account the points made to him by the association.

  Mr. McNamara
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will now develop the Narang test for same-day testing of bovine spongiform encephalopathy in the urine of living cattle and make it compulsory. [23453]

  Mrs. Browning
  [holding answer 28 March 1996]: I refer the hon. Member to the answer that I gave to the hon. Members for Wakefield (Mr. Hinchliffe) and for Pembroke (Mr. Ainger) on 26 April 1996, Official Report, column 325.

  Mr. Byers
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture,642
  Fisheries and Food if he will commission research into the possibility of detecting BSE in cattle before they are slaughtered. [25894]

  Mrs. Browning
  [holding answer 23 April 1996]: A considerable amount of research into developing a test to detect BSE in cattle before they are slaughtered is already under way. A list of the research was provided in my answer to the hon. Members for Edinburgh, East (Mr. Strang) and for Angus, East (Mr. Welsh) on 1 May 1996.

  Slaughterhouse Waste
  Mrs. Helen Jackson
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, pursuant to his oral statement of 20 March,Official Report, columns 387–96, what research he (a) has commissioned and (b) plans to commission into the effects on the water supply of the disposal of (i) offal and (ii) other waste from slaughtered cattle on agricultural land. [23004]

  Mrs. Browning
  [holding answer 26 March 1996]: I refer the hon. Lady to the answer given to her on 16 April, Official Report, column 466.

  Food Hygiene
  Mr. David Nicholson
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many regulations involving food hygiene requirements and affecting(a) shops, (b) hotels and restaurants and (c) guest houses have been (i) repealed and (ii) simplified under the Government's deregulation initiative; and if he will make a statement on the efforts made to relax the regulatory regime on smaller-scale establishments. [26909]

  Mr. Horam
  I have been asked to reply.

  Most shops, hotels and restaurants and guest houses whose commercial activities include the preparation and sale of food are covered by the Food Safety (General Food Hygiene) Regulations 1995 SI 1763 and the Food Safety (Temperature Control) Regulations 1995 SI 2200. These two sets of regulations, which came into force in Great Britain on 15 September 1995, simplified and replaced 12 sets of hygiene regulations. These measures form part of the Government's comprehensive food law deregulation plan aimed at reducing the regulatory burdens on businesses at the same time as maintaining safeguards for consumers. Copies of the plan are available in the Library.

  Secure Training Centres: Tenders
  Secure Training Centres: Tenders
  Prisons: Education Provision
  Prisons: Education Provision
  Prevention of Terrorism Legislation: Searches
  Prevention of Terrorism Legislation: Searches
  Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti
  Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti
  Outer Space Treaty
  Outer Space Treaty
  UN Register of Conventional Arms
  UN Register of Conventional Arms
  EU Council: Forthcoming Business
  EU Council: Forthcoming Business
  Department of Transport
  Department of Transport
  EU Fishing (Moroccan Waters)
  EU Fishing (Moroccan Waters)
  Chocolate Directive
  Chocolate Directive
  Specified Bovine Material Handling: Surveillance
  Specified Bovine Material Handling: Surveillance