HC Deb 17 July 1997 vol 298 c268W
Mr. Campbell-Savours

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) on what dates since 1 May(a) Ministers and (b) officials in his Department have met commercial lobbyists to discuss matters relating to the business of his Department; and if he will introduce a register of such meetings; [8063]

(2) on what dates since 1 May (a) Ministers and (b) officials in his Department have attended meetings with organisations representing (i) commercial and (ii) non-commercial interests organised by commercial lobbying firms; and if he will introduce a register of such meetings. [8064]

Mr. Dewar

As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister explained in response to the hon. Member for Newport, West (Mr. Flynn) on 2 JuneOfficial Report, column 99, Ministers and officials receive deputations from many groups who are concerned to press their own interests or those of their clients. These are considered in the context of the wider public interest and of Government policy. As it is not practicable to distinguish particular groups as lobbyists, I do not propose to introduce a register of such meetings.