HL Deb 14 July 1997 vol 581 cc96-7WA
Lord Hill-Norton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What are the responsibilities of the Minister without Portfolio, and to whom does he report.

Lord Richard

The Minister without Portfolio is responsible for assisting the Prime Minister and other ministerial colleagues in implementing government policy and presenting it effectively. He has specific responsibility for the Government's interests in the Millennium Experience at Greenwich.

Lord Hill-Norton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Who is the Accounting Officer for the office of the Minister without Portfolio.

Lord Richard

The Secretary of the Cabinet.

Lord Hill-Norton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the forecast total cost of the office of the Minister without Portfolio during the current financial year.

Lord Richard

The forecast total cost of the office of the Minister without Portfolio from 2 May to the end of the current financial year is £373,000.

Lord Hill-Norton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many people are employed in the office of the Minister without Portfolio and what are their duties.

Lord Richard

Five: two private secretaries supporting the Minister without Portfolio in his responsibilities for the implementation and presentation of Government policy; a diary secretary; and two personal secretaries with typing and other administrative duties. He also has an Adviser, not paid by the Government.