HC Deb 17 November 1997 vol 301 cc16-7W
Mr. Baker

To ask the Prime Minister on how many occasions since 1 May the Civil Contingencies Committee has met; and what matters have been discussed. [15691]

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 3 November 1997]It is not the practice to disclose details of proceedings of the Civil Contingencies Committee.

Mr. Baker

To ask the Prime Minister what is the membership of the Civil Contingencies Committee. [15692]

The Prime Minister

[holding answer 13 November 1997]The composition of the Civil Contingencies Committee is as follows:

  • Home Secretary (Chairman)
  • Head of the Economic and Domestic Secretariat, Cabinet Office (Deputy Chairman)
  • The Prime Minister's Chief Press Secretary Representatives of:
  • Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
  • HM Treasury
  • Home Office
  • Department for Education and Employment
  • Ministry of Defence
  • Department of Health
  • Department of Culture, Media and Sport
  • Northern Ireland Office
  • Welsh Office
  • Office of Public Service.

Its terms of reference are: To co-ordinate the preparation of plans for ensuring in an emergency the supplies and services essential to the life of the community; to keep these plans under regular review; to supervise their prompt and effective implementation in specific emergencies; and to report as necessary to the appropriate Ministerial Committee".