HC Deb 26 June 1997 vol 296 c612W
Mr. Hawkins

To ask the Prime Minister how many (i) meetings and (ii) telephone conversations he has had since 2 May with the Minister without Portfolio. [5415]

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 25 June 1997]: Several.

Mr. Hawkins

To ask the Prime Minister what responsibility the Minister without Portfolio has for(a) the Government's policy on freedom of information and (b) its policy towards the media. [5422]

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 25 June 1997]: My hon. Friend contributes to collective consideration of issues relating to freedom of information, and is responsible for assisting me and other ministerial colleagues in implementing and presenting government policy.

Mr. Hawkins

To ask the Prime Minister what responsibility he has given to the Minister without Portfolio for the Government Information Service. [5423]

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 25 June 1997]: My hon. Friend and other ministerial colleagues work closely with members of the Government Information Service on the presentation of Government policy.

Mr. Hawkins

To ask the Prime Minister which ministerial committees are attended by the Minister without Portfolio. [5425]

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 25 June 1997]: I refer the hon. Member to the reply that I gave to the hon. Member for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney (Mr. Rowlands) on 9 June, Official Report, columns 302–10.