§ Lord Tebbitasked Her Majesty's Government:
How often, since his appointment as Minister for Trade and Competitiveness in Europe, Lord Simon of Highbury has made himself available for questioning by Parliament and how often he has given interviews to representatives of the media.
§ The Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry (Lord Simon of Highbury)Since 14 May I have answered two starred questions and participated in three debates.
I have been, and will continue to be, available to speak to the media when appropriate opportunities arise.
§ Lord Tebbitasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the Minister for Trade and Competitiveness in Europe, Lord Simon of Highbury, has attended any meetings concerned with energy policy or the oil and gas industries since his appointment.
§ Lord Simon of HighburyThe Minister attends meetings where they are relevant to his responsibilities and do not give rise to conflicts of interest. The Minister for Science, Energy and Industry is responsible for energy policy and the oil and gas industries.
§ Lord Tebbitasked Her Majesty's Government:
From how many meetings of Ministers or with officials in the European Commission the Minister for Trade and Competitiveness in Europe, Lord Simon of Highbury, has absented himself since his appointment in order to avoid conflict of interest.
§ Lord Simon of HighburyNone.
§ Lord Tebbitasked Her Majesty's Government:
From how many meetings within government the Minister for Trade and Competitiveness in Europe, Lord Simon of Highbury, has been excluded or absented himself in order to avoid a conflict of interest since his appointment.
§ Lord Simon of HighburyThe arrangements in place ensure that the question does not arise.