Written Answers of 3 December 1998

LORD CHANCELLOR'S DEPARTMENT

  Rural Areas (Access to Justice)
  Mr. Wigley
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department what steps the Welsh Office is taking to increase access to justice for people living in rural areas in Wales. [61473]

  Mr. Hoon
  The Lord Chancellor's Department is proposing to create a Community Legal Service, which will improve access to good quality legal and advice services for those with the greatest need. This will be achieved by greater local planning of legal and advice services and co-ordination of funding through Community Legal Service Partnerships between local authorities, the Legal Aid Board and other significant funders. This will be particularly important to rural communities, as the inconsistent geographic coverage of legal and advice services impacts disproportionately in rural areas.

  The Lord Chancellor's Department also wishes to see the facilities at some magistrates' courts improved where these may be substandard, but—as section 56 of the Justices of the Peace Act 1997 sets out—decisions about the location and number of courthouses and offices are the responsibility of the relevant magistrates' courts committees in consultation with their paying authorities. The Lord Chancellor's Department will become involved only when a paying authority appeals against an MCC's determination.

  Mr. Wigley
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will take steps to halt the closure of(a) magistrates' and (b) county council courts in the rural areas of Wales. [61474]

  Mr. Hoon
  Magistrates' courts are locally managed by magistrates' courts committees under the provisions of the Justices of the Peace Act 1997. Decisions concerning the location and number of magistrates' courts in their area are for the relevant magistrates' courts committee to determine. A local authority that contributes financially may appeal to the Lord Chancellor against a proposed closure. The procedure for such appeals is set out in section 56 of the Justices of the Peace Act 1997. In the absence of an appeal, however, the Lord Chancellor plays no part in the process.

  The Court Service is responsible for all civil and the higher criminal courts and is required constantly to monitor and review the viability of its court network. Factors taken into consideration include the role played by the court in providing a service to the public in that area, and the effect and implications of providing an alternative for its current users. The criteria for considering the case for and against closure as set out in the Departmental Accommodation Plan are: the condition of the existing accommodation; the availability of facilities; the frequency of judicial visits and waiting
  232
  times; the facilities provided by the alternative court; and the capacity of that court to cater for the additional work; and distances and public transport considerations. In general, the Court service must look to improve services to an area overall.

DEFENCE

  Newsletters
  Mr. Matthew Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what are the current security classifications of the newsletters produced for the staff of(a) the Pay and Personnel Agency and (b) the Duke of York's Royal Military School; how often each newsletter is produced; and when each newsletter was first produced. [62043]

  Mr. Spellar
  This is a matter for the Chief Executives of the agencies concerned. I have asked the Chief Executives to write to the hon. Member.

  Letter from G. H. Wilson to Mr. Matthew Taylor, dated 3 December 1998:
  I am replying to your Question to the Secretary of State for Defence about newsletters to staff as this matter falls within my area of responsibility as Chief Executive of the Duke of York's Royal Military School.
  The current security classification of newsletters produced for the staff is "unclassified".
  Newsletters were first produced for staff, parents and pupils in December 1992 and are produced once per school term. In addition Staff Bulletins have been in production at the school for many decades and these are produced once a week.

  Letter from Mike Rowe to Mr. Matthew Taylor, dated 3 December 1998:
  I am replying to your Question to the Secretary of State for Defence about newsletters as this falls within my area of responsibility as Chief Executive of the Pay & Personnel Agency.
  The Agency produces an unclassified newsletter, the "NewsPayPer". It was first produced in July 1996 and there have been 9 quarterly issues since.

  Research Papers
  Mr. Matthew Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many series of research papers his Department produces; and what are the names of each of these series of research papers. [62041]

  Mr. Spellar
  A very large number of research papers are produced by the staff of Ministry of Defence research establishments and most such papers are in the public domain and not classified. Publication of research papers is the individual responsibility of the research establishments and sectors within them. Details of series of research papers are not held centrally, and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT

  Protection of Wrecks Act 1973
  Mr. Kidney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will make a statement on the procedures for enforcement of the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973, indicating the steps salvers should take to initiate enforcement action. [60864]
  233
  Mr. Alan Howarth
  Responsibility for policing or prosecuting offences under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 lies with the relevant police force and the Crown Prosecution Service. My Department is happy to assist the police in any matters relating to the 1973 Act, whenever necessary. Steps are being taken to remind relevant police forces of their responsibilities under the 1973 Act, and of the designated wreck sites within their area of responsibility.

  Any individual who suspects that illegal diving may be taking place on a designated wreck site should, in the first instance, contact their local police constabulary whose responsibility it is to take the necessary steps to investigate the allegations. My Department would also wish to be kept informed of such incidents and will provide advice as necessary.

  Mr. Kidney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will make a statement about the actions of and communications between his Department and the Devon and Cornwall police in the week commencing 5 October 1998, regarding the designated site at Salcombe and the complaint made to them under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973. [60865]

  Mr. Alan Howarth
  My officials were in telephone contact with the Devon and Cornwall Police three times on Wednesday 7 October to discuss the situation on the Salcombe Cannon designated wreck site. As a result of the telephone conversation, a letter was faxed to the Police at 3.15pm on Wednesday 7 October, setting out the legal provisions of the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973. A copy of the licence for the site, detailing the individuals authorised to dive on it, was also faxed to the Police, at their request, on the afternoon of Wednesday 7 October. A further telephone call was made to the Police on Friday 9 October to obtain an update on the situation.

  Royal Parks Agency
  Mr. Ottaway
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) if he will provide a breakdown of the running costs of the Royal Parks Agency(a) by area of responsibility and (b) by Royal Park in each year since 1993; [60973]

  (2) how many people were employed by the Royal Parks Agency to maintain (a) Hyde Park and (b) Regent's Park in each year since 1993; [60892]

  (3) how many people employed by the Royal Parks Agency in each year since 1993 were paid (a) £0 to £10,000, (b) £10,000 to £20,000, (c) £20,000 to £30,000, (d) £30,000 to £40,000, (e) £40,000 to £50,000 and (f) £50,000 and above. [60891]

  Mr. Alan Howarth
  [holding answer 27 November 1998]: Responsibility for the subject of these questions has been delegated to the Royal Parks Agency under its Chief Executive, Mr. David Welch. I have asked him to arrange for a reply to be given.

  Letter from Viviane Robertson to Mr. Richard Ottaway, dated 3 December 1998:
  In the absence of the Chief Executive, Mr. David Welch, the Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport has asked me to reply to your parliamentary questions concerning staffing levels and costs in the Royal Parks.
  234

  Breakdown of the running costs of the Royal parks Agency by area of responsibility and by Royal Park in each year since 1993

  £000

  1993–94

  1994–95

  1995–96

  1996–97

  1997–98

  Hyde Park

  325

  363

  379

  399

  313

  St. James's Park

  136

  155

  171

  255

  236

  Kensington Gardens

  122

  111

  114

  134

  110

  Regent's Park

  282

  294

  342

  313

  169

  Greenwich Park

  197

  201

  190

  157

  160

  Richmond Park

  290

  363

  322

  327

  335

  Bushy Park

  142

  122

  126

  128

  117

  Royal parks

  5,623

  5,443

  5,420

  5,182

  5,094

  Constabulary Headquarters

  1,308

  1,510

  1,428

  1,730

  1,500

  Note:

  These figures represent net running costs ie: less receipts. A further breakdown of Headquarters costs is not available

  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport, how many people were employed by the Royal parks Agency to maintain Hyde park and Regent's Park in each year since 1993.

  From 1993–94 to 1996–97 the Agency employed 12 non-uniformed staff to maintain Hyde park and 8 staff to maintain Regent's park. Since 1997–98 these numbers have been reduced to 8 and 6 respectively. I regret we are unable to confirm the number of police officers in these two parks, as we do not keep historical records of numbers of police officers on a park by park basis.

  To ask the Secretary of State of State for Culture Media and Sport, how many people employed by the Royal Parks Agency in each year since 1993 were paid in (a) £0 to £10,000, (b) 10,000 to £20,000, (c) £20,00 to £30,000, (d) £30,000 to £40,000, (e) £40,00 to £50,000 and (f) £50,000 and above.

  Number of Employees in each band by Financial Year

  Salary band £

  1993–94

  1994–95

  1995–96

  1996–97

  1997–98

  30,000–39,999

  n/a

  7

  14

  9

  21

  40,000–49,000

  n/a

  3

  2

  2

  2

  50,000—above

  n/a

  0

  1

  1

  1

  We are unable to provide a breakdown of the numbers of staff paid in bands below £30,000.

  English National Stadium
  Mr. Gardiner
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) if he will ensure that the new English National Stadium will be held in trust for the nation in perpetuity by the English National Stadium Trust; [61435]

  (2) if the FA and the English National Stadium Developments Company will continue to be bound by the contractual terms of the grant from the English Sports Council following repayments of that grant; [61433]

  (3) when the development proposal for the new National Stadium will be submitted to the appropriate planning authority; [61432]

  (4) what redress will be available to the English National Stadium Trust in the event that the FA and the English National Stadium Development Company break the terms of the grant from the English Sports Council; [61434]

  (5) if he will make a statement on his policy regarding attempts to sell a share of the freehold interests in the new English National Stadium; [61436]

  (6) when he expects the sale of the Wembley Stadium site to the English National Stadium Trust's Development Company to be concluded; [61431]
  235
  (7) what plans he has to grant a long lease of the new National Stadium to the English National Stadium Trust. [61437]

  Mr. Banks
  The planning application for the National Stadium is a matter for the English National Stadium Development Company (ENSDC) in consultation with the London Borough of Brent, as planning authority. The present anticipated timetable for submitting a planning application is Spring/Summer 1999, although ENSDC are known to be reviewing the position. The English Sports Council (ESC) included milestone dates on planning issues as conditions of the Lottery award to ensure the project moves ahead on a reasonable timetable.

  In the event of a breach of the conditions of the Lottery award, the ESC has the right to seek repayment. It is a condition of the Lottery award that the freehold interest cannot be sold. The site acquisition is still under discussion between the applicants and Wembley Plc. The site purchase arrangements are subject to strict Stock Exchange rules on disclosure. Following the acquisition, it is intended that the English National Stadium Trust will hold a 999 year lease for the stadium site. The principal lottery award conditions will apply for 50 years, even if the award is repaid, to ensure that the stadium meets its objectives throughout this period.

  As these are detailed matters relating to a Lottery award. I have also written to my hon. Friend proposing he receives a briefing from the ESC on the National Stadium project.

TREASURY

  Business Taxation
  Mr. Whittingdale
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what measures have been proposed by the European Commission to reduce harmful tax competition; and if he will make a statement. [61883]

  Dawn Primarolo
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: On 1 December 1997, based on a Commission proposal the ECOFIN Council acknowledged the positive effects of fair competition and the need for a Code of Conduct for business taxation designed to list harmful tax measures.

  Mr. Greenway
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement about the effect of EU tax harmonisation proposals on British business. [61308]

  Dawn Primarolo
  Decisions in this area are subject to unanimity. We have made it clear that we will not agree to any course of action which is not in Britain's national economic interest.

  Mr. Malcolm Bruce
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if it is his policy to seek to end harmful tax competition within the European Union; what his policy is on determining what types of tax competition are harmful; and if he will make a statement. [61065]

  Dawn Primarolo
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: The Government are in favour of effective international action to combat harmful tax practices. The Government support the work of the Code of Conduct Group which under my Chairmanship has been reviewing
  236
  measures which may be considered harmful under the criteria set out in the Code of Conduct on business taxation.

  Tax Policy
  Mr. Malcolm Bruce
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if it is his policy to switch the tax burden away from taxes on labour to taxes on capital; and if he will make a statement. [61069]

  Dawn Primarolo
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: The Government's tax policy objectives are set out in paragraphs 1.66 to 1.69 of the July 1997 Financial Statement and Budget Report.

  Anglo-German Working Party
  Mr. Malcolm Bruce
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on his plans for an Anglo-German working party on job creation and economic reform. [61062]

  Ms Hewitt
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: When the Chancellor met the new German Finance Minister, Herr Lafontaine, on Thursday 19 November, they agreed that we should look together at what more we can do to promote job creation and economic reform in our economies. Both Governments will work closely, including through a joint working group, to examine the policies we are pursuing and how we can learn from each other.

  Energy Conservation
  Mr. Alan Simpson
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what approaches he has made to the European Commission since the spring Budget regarding VAT in the United Kingdom on energy conservation materials and supplies. [62038]

  Ms Hewitt
  Under the UK Presidency Environment Ministers of Member States reached agreement that the Council should invite the European Commission to consider proposals for differentiation in tax levels for energy saving products. The Financial Secretary has also written directly to Commissioner Monti putting forward the case for change.

  Sterling
  Mr. Mitchell
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer in how many weeks the pound has been(a) within, (b) above and (c) below the exchange rate mechanism target since 1 January 1997. [62300]

  Ms Hewitt
  Sterling is not a member of the ERM and the Government have no intention of joining. The Government do not have a target for sterling but aim for a stable and competitive exchange rate over the medium term, consistent with the objective of price stability.

  Developing Countries (Debt)
  Mr. Reed
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what restrictions are placed upon the Government's ability to act independently of other creditors to reduce debt owed by developing countries by (i) the European Union,
  237
  (ii) the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and (iii) other international organisations or agreements. [61491]

  Ms Hewitt
  The UK is not restricted in acting unilaterally to reduce debt owed by developing countries by either the EU, the OECD or any other international agreements.

  However, lasting solutions to the problems of heavily indebted poor countries require a multilateral effort. Since the UK holds only a part of the total debt owed by these countries, it cannot by itself reduce their debts to sustainable levels. That is why the UK has been making such efforts in international forums to ensure that all creditors co-operate in giving poor countries a permanent solution to their debt burdens.

  Mr. Reed
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to cancel the debt owed to the United Kingdom Government by Nicaragua and Honduras; and if he will make a statement on discussions with other creditors on assistance to Nicaragua and Honduras. [61496]

  Ms Hewitt
  The UK wrote off all of its loans to Honduras and Nicaragua long before Hurricane Mitch struck. Following the devastation caused to these countries last month, the Chancellor decided that Nicaragua and Honduras need make no debt service payments to ECGD over the next two years. The issue of a moratorium is to be discussed at the Paris Club of official bilateral creditors next week.

  The Chancellor wrote to the International Financial Institutions—the IMF, World Bank and Inter-American Development Bank—calling on them to look at possible mechanisms for lessening the debt service obligations of Honduras and Nicaragua, and has taken these proposals forward with his G7 and EU colleagues.

  Mr. Reed
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will urge the IMF to sell gold reserves in order to pay for the immediate suspension of debt service payments to the international institutions by Nicaragua and Honduras. [61494]

  Ms Hewitt
  The UK Government support, and have been pressing for, the sale of a proportion of the IMF gold reserves to provide financing for the HIPC initiative. The UK will continue to press for gold sales in the IMF Executive Board. Gold sales require the approval of the Executive Board by a majority of 85 per cent., and we are therefore working closely with other members at the IMF to secure Board approval.

  Petroleum Products (Cross-border Smuggling)
  Mr. Donaldson
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the impact on the rate of economic growth in Northern Ireland of the smuggling of petroleum products from Irish Republic; and if he will make a statement. [61924]

  Ms Hewitt
  HM Customs and Excise has no estimates for the impact on the rate of economic growth in Northern Ireland of such activity.

  Petroleum Products (Duty)
  Mr. Donaldson
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer on how many litres of(a) road gasoline and (b) road diesel fuel duty was paid in each quarter of (i) 1996, (ii) 1997 and (iii) 1998 to date. [61922]

  Ms Hewitt
  Deliveries of Petrol and Diesel of all types:

  litres

  Quarter to:

  Petrol

  Diesel

  March 1996

  6,539,545,262

  3,722,415,706

  June 1996

  7,597,407,232

  4,238,895,402

  September 1996

  7,607,522,225

  4,226,809,708

  December 1996

  7,813,186,668

  4,755,757,113

  March 1997

  6,454,953,806

  3,961,713,098

  June 1997

  7,710,831,141

  4,464,754,208

  September 1997

  7,018,707,158

  4,204,496,511

  December 1997

  7,390,567,838

  4,655,813,319

  March 1998

  7,430,834,826

  4,588,144,139

  June 1998

  6,087,221.415

  3,752,885,748

  September 1998

  7,322,234,298

  4,440,737,252

  To end October 1998

  2,396,833,797

  1,499,918,984

  These figures are for the whole of the UK. Customs does not keep separate figures for any regions.

  Construction Industry
  Mr. Levitt
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect which the 11-week limit to casual employment has had on small employers in the construction industry. [61911]

  Mr. Ian McCartney
  I have been asked to reply.

  I assume that my hon. Friend refers to the 13-week qualifying period for the entitlement to paid annual leave under the Working Time regulations. There was no specific assessment on applying this entitlement to casual workers, and specifically the ramifications for small employers in the construction industry. An assessment for the whole of British industry was made, a copy of which is held in the Library.

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

  Hinduja Group
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what grant applications her Department has received from the Hinduja group of companies since 1 May 1997; and what grants have been paid. [62241]

  Clare Short
  The Department for International Development has received no grant applications from the group and has paid no grants to it.

  Hurricane Mitch
  Mr. Derek Twigg
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what her plans are for further assistance to Central America in the aftermath of Hurricane Mitch. [62674]

  Clare Short
  An assessment mission from DFID visited Honduras and Nicaragua on 23–28 November. They had an extensive programme of field visits to disaster affected areas and discussions with Governments,
  239
  UN agencies, the Inter-American Development Bank and World Bank, Red Cross and NGOs, EC and other donors. Our findings and conclusions are as follows:
  Situation Assessment
  Consolidated estimates of damage confirm that Honduras is, by far, the worst affected country. Some 20,000 are dead and missing, 285,000 displaced and overall about 1.4 million (out of a total population of 6.1 million) affected. The physical devastation is widespread, affecting 14 out of 18 administrative departments: 60 per cent. of roads and bridges, 50 per cent. of agricultural production (including a fifth of the economically important coffee and nearly all the banana export crops), 80 per cent. of water distribution networks, 70 per cent. of hospitals, 12 per cent. of health centres, and 25 per cent. of schools are destroyed or severely damaged. The effects of the disaster, still starkly visible a month later, are reflected most obviously in disrupted access and basic utilities. Groups of destitute families are living under ramshackle and insanitary conditions wherever they can find shelter.
  In Nicaragua damage to infrastructure has been more moderate though still significant in five departments (Pacific coast and the north). Overall, some 3,000 are dead and missing, and 370,000 (out of a total population of 4.5 million) severely affected. But, in contrast to Honduras, the physical effects and human impact are less evident a month later.
  The mission did not visit El Salvador (population 5.8 million, 475 killed/missing, 84,000 affected) and Guatemala (population 10.9 million, 400 killed/missing, 105,000 affected) but reports suggest substantially less damage. In both countries, agricultural losses appear to be more significant than infrastructure damage (except in particular pockets).
  Assessment of disaster response
  In both Honduras and Nicaragua, a striking feature has been the self-help efforts of the communities themselves, reflecting the strong regional tradition of community solidarity. Most lives were saved and vulnerable people helped by indigenous efforts as the physical disruption of the hurricane and floods meant that it took time for outside help to arrive. The strength of local government was a key factor in enabling good local mobilisation.
  The most effective external life-saving interventions appear to have been carried out by the military (both national and foreign forces). However, there are lessons to be drawn in terms of the efficiency and effectiveness of tasking and military/civil co-operation. The Governments of Honduras and Nicaragua also responded effectively.
  Co-ordination in both countries presents a mixed picture. However it is important to recognise the practical constraints (especially in Honduras) and the burden placed by outside organisations rushing in. The UN-coordinated needs assessment process was crucial and reached credible conclusions. The UN Diaster Assessment and Co-ordination (UNDAC) mechanism of OCHA was also useful and appropriately deployed in support of the in-country UN Resident Co-ordinator. Inter-agency co-operation within the UN system appears to have been satisfactory. But overall, the UN could have been more assertive in terms of providing guidance and "gate-keeping", and donors more conscientious—and less competitive—in deferring to UN co-ordination.
  The EC through ECHO, has disbursed funds for immediate relief through NGOs working in the region, and is planning an extensive reconstruction package. In the Development Council on 30 November, I emphasised the importance of co-ordinating this with the wider international assistance effort. We intend to work closely with the EC to ensure that its assistance is disbursed as effectively as possible.
  International NGOs have also made useful contributions. The best work is being done by agencies already established on the ground. They are able to mobilise existing systems and structures and draw on the local knowledge and trust they have built up. This contrasts with the many diaster relief organisations that have flocked to the region and have had difficulty in finding a
  240
  meaningful niche while possibly creating additional problems for their hosts (for example overburdening internal transport systems).
  Impact of DFID humanitarian assistance
  Britain was among the fastest in delivery relief on the ground. In the immediate aftermath of the hurricane, a total of about £1 million was granted by DFID to NGOs (CAFOD, CARE, Christian Aid, Del Campo farmers co-operative, Food for the Hungry, IRC, Tear Fund), the International Federation of Red Cross, the Pan American Health Organisations, and the Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Assistance (OCHA). The geographical distribution of funding to date is about £370,000 for Honduras, £390,000 for Nicaragua, £15,000 for El Salvador, and £200,000 for regional use to benefit all four countries. Most of our grants have been disbursed very rapidly and transformed into urgently needed benefits for an estimated 0.5 million people. These include provision of emergency shelter, clothing, blankets and household goods, water supplies, health care, seeds and other agricultural inputs.
  Forward strategy
  Immediate disaster relief needs have been largely met except perhaps for the most isolated communities. Planning for the longer-term needs of reconstruction is progressing but it will be at least six months before we see real progress. Meanwhile, there is a transition period in which continued humanitarian assistance is necessary. Survivors—especially those who are displaced—remain vulnerable to disease in the absence of safe water and disruption of health services. Food security can be promoted if inputs are made in time for the current planting season. If primary schooling is not restored, vulnerable children may drop out permanently from education. The solution to meeting these urgent needs is, as has been demonstrated already, by supporting successful community efforts, in close conjunction with socially responsive local municipal authorities, in a way that kick starts local economies. But one very serious constraint—especially in Honduras—is the continued lack of access to poor communities because of disrupted roads. Without tackling this very little else is possible, and vulnerability will increase as people's reserves run out.
  The UN is about to launch a "Transitional Appeal" for the period December 1998 to May 1999. This should provide a good framework of priorities. Our own further transitional humanitarian assistance, over the next six months, will enable people—especially the poor who have been left completely destitute by the disaster—to survive and cope, while seeking to establish the basis for sustainable recovery.
  In the light of this, I have decided that, during this transitional period, we will provide further humanitarian assistance of £3 million allocated according to the relative needs of the affected countries. This will include:
  In Honduras, a programme of emergency repairs and rehabilitation to secondary (rural) roads, including essential small bridges; and also a public works programme ("cash for work") targeting particularly neglected municipalities. This would benefit poor families by creating short-term local employment while also generating much needed social benefits through the rehabilitation of essential community infrastructure, and injecting cash into local economies.
  In Nicaragua support for UNICEF's emergency programmes to repair water and sanitation infrastructure and to restore primary health and education services for diaster affected communities.
  On a regional basis, support for a WHO/PAHO programme within the national health authorities of the four Central American countries, especially in the area of epidemiological surveillance and epidemic control.
  Support for UNDP's function of inter-agency co-ordination through the Offices of the UN Resident/Humanitarian Co-ordinators in all affected countries.

  241
  Longer Term
  We are also working on plans to respond to longer term needs. We have already committed £6 million for Central America over the next two years. We are now re-focusing this to take account of reconstruction needs. We are also taking forward the proposals on debt relief which the Chancellor and I announced on 7 November.
  Learning the lessons
  Given the magnitude of the disaster and the complexity of the international and national response efforts, there are many lessons to be learned to improve disaster preparedness in developing countries. We shall be pursuing these in the context of a UN-led lessons learnt exercise planned for February 1999.

SCOTLAND

  Independent Tribunal Service
  Mr. Moore
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many people in Scotland had been waiting for more than(a) three, (b) six, (c) 12 and (d) 18 months for a response from an Independent Tribunal Service appeal, in the year ended 31 August (a) 1998 and (b) 1997. [61918]

  Angela Eagle
  I have been asked to reply.

  The information is not available in the form requested. Such information as is available is in the tables.

  All cases heard and decided by an appeal tribunal in 1997 and 1998

  January-December 1997

  3–6 months

  3,448

  6–12 months

  8,051

  1–2 years

  1,874

  2 years and over

  159

  January-August 1998

  3–6 months

  5,674

  6–12 months

  10,289

  12–18 months

  2,489

  18 months and over

  760

  Note:

  A figure for 18 months is not available for the 1997 data

  Source:

  Appeals—Data supplied by Analytical Services Division (ASD) from the computer extracts from the Independent Tribunal Service (ITS).

  The Government are committed to reducing the unacceptable delays in handling welfare appeals, new arrangements for decision making and appeals will be introduced next year and will provide a more responsive and efficient service for appellants.

  We will set stringent, effective targets for the clearance of appeals when the new arrangements are introduced.

EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT

  Teachers (Trade Unions)
  Mr. MacShane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will list the trade unions representing teaching staff with which his Department has dealings. [62025]
  242
  Mr. Charles Clarke
  The Department has dealings with the following trade unions representing teaching staff:

  Association of Teachers and Lecturers

  Association of University Teachers

  National Association of Head Teachers

  National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers

  National Association for Teachers in Further and Higher Education

  National Union of Teachers

  Professional Association of Teachers

  Secondary Heads Association

  Undeb Cenedlaethol Athrawon Cymru/National Association of the Teachers of Wales.

  Mr. MacShane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many hours were spent in(a) primary and (b) secondary schools by teachers on permitted trade union activities in each of the last three years for which figures are available. [62028]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  This information is not collected centrally.

  Literacy and Numeracy
  Mr. MacShane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what the ranking of the UK has been in standard international comparative tables for literacy and numeracy in each of the last five years. [62026]

  Ms Estelle Morris
  We are not aware of any standard annual comparative tables for literacy and numeracy. However, the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), carried out in 1995, found that in mathematics England's 9 year olds came 10th out of 17 countries; and our 13 year olds came 16th out of 25 countries. In the International Adult Literacy Survey (IALS), carried out in 1996, British adults came 9th out of the 12 countries for which results are so far available.

  This Government are determined to raise standards in schools and also take the issue of basic skills very seriously. That is why we have established the National Literacy and Numeracy Strategies which are designed to raise standards to the level of the best. In addition to the wide range of current adult learning opportunities, the Government have set a target in The Learning Age to help 500,000 people a year by 2002.

  Ministerial E-mail Address
  Mr. Brake
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what is his e-mail address. [62562]

  Mr. Mudie
  The e-mail address for my right hon. Friend and other Ministers in his Department is: http://dfee.ministers@dfee.gov.uk

  Class Sizes
  Mr. Willis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if, where a child is admitted in the final term, as an agreed exception under the Regulations of the School Standards and Framework to a reception infant class that already has 30 pupils, it will be mandatory to
  243
  reduce the class size maximum to 30 in the following year; and what advice local education authorities will be given on compliance with the legislation. [61824]

  Ms Estelle Morris
  There are two general sets of circumstances in which a child will be treated as an excepted pupil and not count towards the infant class size limit of 30 pupils for every qualified teacher, to apply from the start of the 2001–2002 school year—

  (1) where a child is admitted to the school in certain specified circumstances that could not have been anticipated in planning, for example where he moves into the area outside a normal admission round and cannot find a place at any other suitable school; and

  (2) where a child, who is normally educated in a special school or in a unit in a mainstream school for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN), attends a mainstream class.

  The first set of exceptions applies only for the remainder of the school year in which the child was first admitted—even where the child was admitted during the final term of that year. The second set of exceptions enables those pupils to gain the benefit of attending mainstream classes and will be permitted beyond the school admission year—at any time when those pupils attend the infant classes at the mainstream school or outside the special unit. Thus it will only be mandatory to reduce the class size maximum to 30 in the following year if the exception is one within the first group.

  On 9 September 1998, the Department for Education and Employment sent guidance (and copies of the relevant Regulations) on the class sizes legislation to all local education authorities in England.

  Communications Technology
  Helen Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what research his Department has commissioned into the effect of studying information communications technology on developing children's ability in other subjects; and if he will make a statement. [62114]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  In recent years the Department has commissioned a range of relevant studies and evaluations. These include

  The Impact of IT on Children's Achievements (1992)

  Preparing for the Information Age (1997)

  The UK ILS Evaluations (1998).

  As part of the National Grid for Learning, the Department will be initiating further studies in the development and use of ICT within the curriculum.

  In addition, the Teacher Training Agency has commissioned a major research study into effective pedagogy for the use of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) in literacy and numeracy in primary schools.

  Art and Music
  Helen Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what research his Department has commissioned into the effect of art and music lessons in developing children's ability in other subjects; and if he will make a statement. [62113]
  244
  Ms Estelle Morris
  My Department has not commissioned any research into the effect of art and music lessons on children's ability in other subjects. This Government believe that art and music are essential parts of every child's education. That is why music and art remain National Curriculum foundation subjects which must be taught by all schools as part of a broad and balanced curriculum.

  School Organisation Plans
  Mrs. May
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment by whom the funding for any public inquiry held by an adjudicator to determine the outcome of proposals for a school organisation plan will be provided. [62306]

  Ms Estelle Morris
  Where an Adjudicator wishes to hold a public inquiry, or is required to do so in respect of school organisation proposals published by the Secretary of State, the cost of that inquiry will be met by the Department for Education and Employment. The Local Education Authority or school concerned will be invited to offer accommodation for the inquiry.

  Teachers (Vacancies)
  Mrs. May
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many teacher vacancies there were in(a) primary schools and (b) secondary schools at the latest date for which information is available by each local education authority. [62304]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  The information requested is shown in the table.

  Teacher vacancies1 in maintained nursery/primary and secondary schools by LEA: and Government Office region: January 1998

  England

  Nursery and Primary

  Secondary

  Gateshead

  3

  1

  Newcastle-upon-Tyne

  3

  2

  North Tyneside

  0

  0

  South Tyneside

  0

  2

  Sunderland

  7

  7

  Hartlepool

  3

  1

  Middlesbrough

  5

  6

  Redcar and Cleveland

  1

  9

  Stockton on Tees

  3

  6

  Durham

  11

  7

  Darlington

  3

  4

  Northumberland

  0

  0

  North East

  39

  45

  Cumbria

  1

  1

  Cheshire

  25

  14

  Bolton

  0

  2

  Bury

  0

  1

  Manchester

  0

  0

  Oldham

  10

  3

  Rochdale

  10

  2

  Salford

  0

  0

  Stockport

  0

  0

  Tameside

  2

  4

  Trafford

  0

  2

  Wigan

  5

  0

  Lancashire

  27

  9

  North West

  80

  38

  Knowsley

  6

  7

  Liverpool

  0

  4

  St. Helens

  1

  4

  245

  Teacher vacancies1 in maintained nursery/primary and secondary schools by LEA: and Government Office region: January 1998

  England

  Nursery and Primary

  Secondary

  Sefton

  0

  0

  Wirral

  4

  10

  Merseyside

  11

  25

  City of Kingston-Upon-Hull

  0

  1

  East Riding of Yorkshire

  1

  0

  North East Lincolnshire

  1

  1

  North Lincolnshire

  2

  0

  North Yorkshire

  8

  8

  York

  0

  0

  Barnsley

  2

  5

  Doncaster

  0

  0

  Rotherham

  0

  0

  Sheffield

  14

  6

  Bradford

  14

  34

  Calderdale

  11

  3

  Kirklees

  0

  6

  Leeds

  16

  9

  Wakefield

  0

  0

  Yorkshire and The Humber

  69

  73

  Derbyshire

  25

  13

  Derby

  6

  4

  Leicestershire

  2

  9

  Leicester City

  5

  7

  Rutland

  1

  1

  Lincolnshire

  37

  21

  Northamptonshire

  1

  2

  Nottinghamshire

  0

  0

  East Midlands

  77

  57

  Hereford and Worcester

  1

  6

  Shropshire

  1

  0

  Staffordshire

  13

  8

  Stoke

  10

  8

  Warwickshire

  11

  1

  Birmingham

  7

  30

  Coventry

  4

  3

  Dudley

  5

  9

  Sandwell

  8

  7

  Solihull

  3

  4

  Walsall

  15

  21

  Wolverhampton

  2

  6

  West Midlands

  80

  103

  Cambridgeshire

  1

  6

  Norfolk

  19

  11

  Suffolk

  8

  14

  Bedfordshire

  11

  12

  Luton

  7

  16

  Essex

  56

  46

  Herefordshire

  31

  36

  Eastern

  133

  141

  City

  0

  0

  Camden

  12

  2

  Greenwich

  31

  22

  Hackney

  51

  9

  Hammersmith and Fulham

  35

  12

  Islington

  27

  15

  Kensington and Chelsea

  17

  3

  Lambeth

  6

  6

  Lewisham

  31

  18

  Southwark

  54

  6

  Tower Hamlets

  52

  13

  Wandsworth

  29

  5

  Westminster

  13

  4

  Barking

  10

  7

  Barnet

  8

  14

  Bexley

  1

  5

  Brent

  20

  8

  246

  Teacher vacancies1 in maintained nursery/primary and secondary schools by LEA: and Government Office region: January 1998

  England

  Nursery and Primary

  Secondary

  Bromley

  11

  4

  Croydon

  8

  5

  Ealing

  17

  30

  Enfield

  11

  6

  Haringey

  20

  10

  Harrow

  9

  2

  Havering

  0

  15

  Hillingdon

  15

  13

  Hounslow

  8

  14

  Kingston-upon-Thames

  5

  1

  Merton

  7

  0

  Newham

  61

  21

  Redbridge

  7

  10

  Richmond-upon-Thames

  2

  1

  Sutton

  4

  5

  Waltham Forest

  43

  4

  London

  625

  290

  Berkshire

  0

  5

  Buckinghamshire

  10

  14

  Milton Keynes

  5

  0

  East Sussex

  18

  11

  Brighton and Hove

  8

  5

  Hampshire

  38

  19

  Portsmouth

  8

  15

  Southampton

  6

  13

  Isle of Wight

  0

  0

  Kent

  55

  34

  Oxfordshire

  4

  3

  Surrey

  27

  14

  West Sussex

  31

  8

  South East

  210

  141

  Bath and North East Somerset

  5

  0

  City of Bristol

  9

  5

  North Somerset

  5

  5

  South Gloucestershire

  3

  4

  Cornwall

  6

  2

  Isles of Scilly

  0

  0

  Devon

  15

  7

  Dorset

  9

  7

  Poole

  1

  2

  Bournemouth

  0

  0

  Gloucestershire

  3

  5

  Somerset

  1

  3

  Wiltshire

  5

  13

  Swindon

  5

  2

  South West

  67

  55

  England

  1,391

  968

  1 Vacancies are recorded for posts which are full-time, permanent, are not currently filled by someone on a contract of one term or more and have been advertised. Vacancies for head teacher and deputies are included above.

  Source:

  Form 618G survey January 1998

  School Standards
  Mrs. May
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment when he expects to appoint adjudicators under section 25 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998; and if he will publish the job description for such adjudicators. [62305]
  247
  Ms Estelle Morris
  We will announce the appointment of adjudicators in the New Year. The posts were advertised in the Summer. Those who expressed an interest were sent a copy of the job description and person specification, which is as follows.School organisation and admissions adjudicators
  The job
  The School Standards and Framework Bill, currently before Parliament, provides for decisions on changes to school organisation (opening, closing, enlarging and changing the character of schools) to be taken at local level by a School Organisation Committee, established by, but independent of the local authority. The Bill also provides for the Secretary of State to appoint adjudicators to consider cases where the School Organisation Committee is unable to reach a decision. The Bill also establishes new arrangements for agreeing school admissions arrangements at local level and provides for complaints about admissions arrangements to be referred to the adjudicator for resolution.
  The adjudicator will consider and decide cases, usually on paper, taking account of the views both of those proposing change and those objecting to it. There will be guidance from the Secretary of State on issues that adjudicators will wish to take into consideration. In the case of admissions there will be a statutory Code of Practice. Adjudicators will be empowered to hold a local public inquiry into any case and will be required to do so if any proposals are made by the Secretary of State. Further background information is contained in the attached documents.
  The Secretary of State proposes to appoint about 20 adjudicators initially, for two or three years. Adjudicators will be allocated cases on the basis of their availability—and where appropriate on the basis of geographical location. We expect that adjudicators will work from home. Adjudicators will be paid £270 per day plus expenses for any day on which they are required to consider cases. The Secretary of State will provide other facilities as necessary and administrative support, which will be located in Darlington. It is difficult to assess loading at this stage, but an adjudicator might be called upon on between 60 and 120 days each year. There are likely to be seasonal pressures, particularly in considering admissions issues, around Easter.
  The first appointment will be of a lead adjudicator whose role would be to secure effective and efficient adjudication by:

  (a) developing procedures and processes through some experience of adjudicating and through discussion with other adjudicators;

  (b) seeking efficient use of resources through guidance on practical issues such as conduct of considerations and writing of decisions;

  (c) seeking to support the consistent application of procedures through peer review—but not reviewing decisions once made. (The provision for appeal against adjudicators' decisions is judicial review);

  (d) convening and chairing training conferences;

  (e) undertaking appraisal of adjudicators, which would inform a decision on re-appointments or potentially on the allocation of cases;

  (f) advising on recruitment and appointment;

  (g) the publication of an annual report;

  (h) providing one voice for the adjudication service with whom Ministers could discuss concerns.

  But we do not envisage that the lead adjudicator will have a heavier adjudication load than any other adjudicator. The lead adjudicator will also be a part-time appointee, but will be paid £1300 a day, and would be guaranteed work for 125 days per year.
  Interviews for candidates for appointment as lead adjudicator will be held in September, with a view to the appointee taking up post as soon as possible thereafter. Other interviews for adjudicators will be held in the late Autumn.
  248
  Person Specification
  The role of an adjudicator will be a challenging one. It is essential that adjudicators have credibility with both the local and education communities, derived from their experience, independence and impartiality.
  Adjudicators must be able to keep an objective perspective, weigh competing arguments, and be accepted for their ability to do so.
  We envisage that successful applicants will have experience of education or education planning at a senior level, for example as a senior education officer; a headteacher or an HMI.
  For the lead adjudicator, in addition to the above, the successful applicant will have experience of senior management in large organisation, for example as a Chief Education Officer.

  EU Youth Affairs Council
  Mr. Dismore
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on the outcome of the EU Youth Affairs Council meeting on 26 November. [62772]

  Mr. Mudie
  I attended the Council of Youth Ministers in Brussels on 26 November.

  The Council agreed unanimously a resolution proposed by the Presidency encouraging the Community and member states to involve young people in decision-making at all levels. The Council also discussed the Commission's proposal for a Community youth action programme from the year 2000 but was unable to reach an agreed common position.

  Secondary School Teachers
  Mr. MacShane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many graduates from(a) Oxford, (b) Cambridge, (c) London, (d) Warwick and (e) Sussex universities have been employed as secondary school teachers in grant maintained schools in (i) 1990, (ii) 1995 and (iii) the last year for which there are records. [62376]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  This information is not held centrally.

HOME DEPARTMENT

  Boards of Visitors
  Mr. Miller
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he has received a copy of the Annual report for 1997 by the National Advisory Council for the Boards of Visitors of England and Wales. [62676]

  Mr. Straw
  I was presented with a copy of the National Advisory Council for the Boards of Visitors of England and Wales' Annual Report for 1997, by its Chairman Mrs. Ruth Draycott OBE JP on 18 August 1998.

  I have asked my noble Friend the Minister of State, Lord Williams of Mostyn, to consider the report and to respond to the issues raised in it.

  A copy of the report has been placed in the Library.

  Asylum and Immigration
  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what changes in the arrangements for(a) deporting persons subject to deportation orders and

  249
  (b) locating and removing illegal immigrants are planned to be made in the period from 1 December 1998 to 1 March 1999. [62228]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  The period 1 December 1998 to 1 March 1999 will see the reorganisation of casework in the Immigration and Nationality Directorate from the present Directorates into a single Integrated Caseworking Directorate. Arrangements for the removal of illegal entrants and people against whom deportation orders have been made will continue unchanged during this period: and the Immigration Service will continue to respond in cases where suspected illegal entrants are detected. During the reorganisation of headquarters case records there will be some interruption to the paper processing of cases, but this will not affect the ability of local immigration officers to take enforcement action in the many cases where decisions have already been taken.

  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how he plans to ascertain whether or not the considerations to be taken into account in dealing with asylum applications made between 1 July 1993 and 31 December 1995 apply to the cases of individual asylum seekers; and if he plans that each such applicant will be interviewed; [62229]

  (2) how he plans to ascertain the considerations to be taken into account in dealing with asylum applications made between 1 July 1993 and 31 December 1995; and if he plans that each such applicant will be interviewed. [62209]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  Undecided asylum cases, where the date of application falls between the dates relevant to the backlog procedure, have already been identified. Instructions to caseworkers processing these cases will be issued shortly and will be made available to the public through selected sites and the internet. A copy will also be placed in the Library.

  Although it may be necessary to interview some of these applicants in order to give cases full consideration, where possible a decision will be taken on the information already available on the file, or subsequently obtained by post from the applicant.

  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the incidence of offending among asylum seekers; and if he will make a statement. [62211]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  No general assessment has been made of such incidents, but any conviction will be notified to the Immigration and Nationality Directorate and will be taken into account when deciding whether an asylum seeker should be allowed to remain in the United Kingdom. There is no evidence that the vast majority of asylum seekers are committing non-immigration criminal offences in the United Kingdom. Recent reports in the press have highlighted criminal offending by a minority, most of whom, with the sanction of the courts, will be removed from the United Kingdom.

  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he proposes to establish guidelines as to the considerations to be taken into account in dealing with asylum applications made between 1 July 1993 and 31 December 1995 as outlined in paragraph 8.30 of Fairer, Faster and Firmer. [62208]
  250
  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  Instructions on how to deal with cases which fall to be dealt with under the backlog procedures are to be issued to staff shortly. A copy of these instructions will be placed in the Library, sent to selected sites and placed on the Immigration and Nationality Directorate's website on the internet.

  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what account will be taken of delays in dealing with their asylum claim caused by the actions of the asylum seekers themselves as regards applicants(a) before 1 July 1993 and (b) from 1 July 1993 to 31 December 1995, in determining the eligibility of such an asylum applicant for indefinite leave to remain under paragraph 8.29 of Fairer, Faster and Firmer. [62233]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  It would be difficult to envisage a set of criteria which would make it possible to distinguish those who through some action have delayed their case and the extent to which it was, in each individual case, justifiable or not.

  Applicants who sought asylum in the United Kingdom before 1 January 1996 and who were still awaiting an initial decision on 27 July 1998 will not be excluded from the backlog procedures announced in the White Paper, even if some of the delay was caused by their own actions. However, any applicant whose case is being dealt with as part of the backlog exercise who, without good reason, fails to respond promptly to inquiries made by the Immigration and Nationality Directorate since the publication of the White Paper, is liable to have their application refused on non-compliance grounds.

  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how he proposes to ascertain in the case of each individual applicant whether or not the presence of pre-July 1993 asylum applicants is conducive to the public good; [62207]

  (2) how he plans to ascertain in the case of individual pre-July 1993 asylum seekers whether or not their presence is conducive to the public good. [62213]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  The information on individual case files will be examined. The Immigration and Nationality Directorate is routinely informed when those subject to immigration control are arrested and convicted of an offence.

  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list the offences which amount to serious criminal offences for the purposes of determining the eligibility of pre–1 July 1993 asylum applicants for indefinite leave to remain under Para 8.29 of Fairer, Faster and Firmer-A Modern Approach to Immigration and Asylum. [62230]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  It depends on the circumstances of the case. but generally an offender receiving a custodial sentence of 12 months or more would be excluded from benefiting from the backlog procedure. Other offenders may be excluded if their record is serious enough.

  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps are currently taken to discover if asylum seekers have a criminal record prior to claiming asylum in the United Kingdom; and what plans he has to introduce new checks so as to ascertain if asylum seekers have criminal records. [62210]
  251
  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  It is existing practice for the Immigration and Nationality Directorate to be advised if any foreign national is convicted of a criminal offence in the United Kingdom. A refugee who has been convicted by a final judgment of a particularly serious crime and constitutes a danger to the community may be removed to the country from which they sought asylum. When considering asylum applications, factors such as criminal convictions will be taken into account if a person qualifies as a refugee and before permission is given to remain in the United Kingdom.

  It is not generally possible to ascertain whether an asylum seeker has committed an offence before they arrived in this country. However, if it is discovered that they have, consideration will be given to whether their actions exclude them from protection under the terms of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.

  We have no plans to introduce any new checks to ascertain whether asylum seekers have criminal records.

  Mr. Clappison
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the likely effects of the refurbishment of Lunar House on the Immigration Service over the next three months. [62227]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  The conditions at Lunar House have been described as Dickensian. The much needed refurbishment has been timed to fit in with fundamental changes in the way the Immigration and Nationality Directorate (IND) handles casework. These include the creation of a new Integrated Casework Directorate, which will be in temporary offices above the Whitgift Centre in Croydon until the building work on Lunar House has been

  Notifiable offences recorded by the police in which firearms, other than air weapons, were reported to have been used England and Wales 1995–1996

  Offences

  July 1995-June 1996

  July 1996-June 1997

  July 1997-June 1998 (provisional)

  Homicide

  64

  51

  43

  Attempted murder and other acts (including wounding) endangering life

  746

  547

  652

  Other offences of violence against the person

  596

  743

  809

  Robbery

  4,249

  3,307

  2,720

  Burglary

  255

  240

  273

  Other offences excluding criminal damage

  248

  229

  221

  Criminal damage

  155

  144

  103

  All offences

  6.313

  5,261

  4.821

  Note:

  Figures for July 1997 to June 1998 exclude a few offences which became notifiable from 1 April 1998

  Shapurji Saklatvala
  Dr. Kumar
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he intends to publish the files kept by the security services on Shapurji Saklatvala; and if he will make a statement. [61649]

  Mr. Straw
  It is long-standing Government policy neither to confirm nor deny whether the Security Service holds a record on any individual. I informed the House on 29 July 1998,Official Report, columns 251–52, that the Security Service has released almost all the surviving material in its archive covering the years 1909–1919, and is actively reviewing for release its more extensive stock of records for World War Two. Once this second phase of historical release has been completed, the Service will
  252
  completed in 2001. I wrote to all hon. Members on 18 November to explain that there will be considerable upheaval in the next three months. However, I am confident that, after February, IND' s service will be much improved. The refurbishment will create more reasonable conditions, which will be more conducive to the efficient delivery of services.

  Dr. Harris
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many asylum applications from Slovakians have been certified since May 1997; how many Roma or Slovakian cases there have been in the period; and in how many of these cases the certification has been overturned at appeal. [61690]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  The number of asylum applications made by nationals of Slovakia from May 1997 to October 1998 was 1,095, of which 565 were certified. I regret the information on ethnic origin could be obtained only by examination of individual case records and is, therefore, available only at disproportionate cost. I regret that the information on how many of the certified refusals overturned at appeal is not available.

  Gun-related Crime
  Mr. Gray
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list, by offence, the number of gun-related crimes committed between(a) July 1995 and July 1996, (b) July 1996 and July 1997 and (c) July 1997 and July 1998. [62194]

  Mr. Boateng
  The table gives the readily available information which relates to the number of notifiable offences in which firearms, other than air weapons, were reported to have been used.

  review its inter-war records in preparation for further releases. It is that period which is relevant to my hon. Friend's Question.

  Prison Service (Staff Messes and Clubs)
  Mr. Beith
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the Prison Service is directly liable for debts occurring in (i) staff messes and (ii) staff clubs in prison service establishments; and if he will make a statement. [61907]

  Mr. George Howarth
  The Prison Service is currently liable for debts incurred by staff messes in Prison Service establishments.
  253
  Staff clubs are, according to current model rules, independent entities separate from Prison Service establishments. They are formed by staff and the managing committee should be responsible for any debts that arise. In their day-to-day operation with creditors, however, clubs have, on occasions, failed to make it clear that they are a separate legal entity from the core Prison Service. Consequently, when problems have occurred, the Prison Service has not always been able to distance itself from liability in the minds of creditors. The worst cases have resulted in settlement of debts from public funds. The Prisons Board has approved a corrective course of action which, following implementation, will ensure public funds are not misused to clear mess and club debts, fines and penalties.

  Mr. Beith
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many(a) staff messes and (b) staff clubs in prison service establishments have closed in each of the last five years. [61905]

  Mr. George Howarth
  From the information currently available, the following number of staff messes and clubs in Prison Service establishments have closed during the last three years:

  1996: One club

  1997: Five clubs and one mess

  1998: One club and one mess.

  Prisoners (Complementary Medicine)
  Mr. Tredinnick
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many of HM prisons currently provide complementary medical services for prisoners; how many others have requested such provision; and if he will make a statement. [62198]

  Mr. George Howarth
  Thirty-one Prison Service establishments have reported that they provide some form of complementary medical services to prisoners; and a further eight have said that they have plans to do so. The Prison Service is planning to issue guidance on the place of complementary therapies alongside conventional health services, as well as the range of treatments that it would be appropriate to offer in the prison context.

  Augusto Pinochet
  Mr. Winnick
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the security arrangements for Augusto Pinochet following(a) his arrest and (b) his removal to another place of residence. [62119]

  General outbreaks of infectious intestinal disease reported to be associated with the consumption of turkey/turkey products, faults suspected to be contributory factors

  Organism

  Number of Outbreaks

  Infected food handler

  Inadequate heat treatment

  Cross contamination

  Inadequate storage

  1995

  Clostridium perfringens

  1

  —

  —

  —

  —

  Salmonella enteritidis PT4

  3

  1

  2

  2

  3

  Salmonella enteritidis other phage types

  1

  —

  1

  1

  1

  Salmonella typhimurium

  3

  1

  —

  —

  —

  SRSV

  1

  —

  —

  —

  —

  254
  Mr. Straw
  Security arrangements for individuals are an operational matter for the chief officer of police concerned.

  Electoral Procedures
  Mr. Todd
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the outcome of the review of the commercial sale of electoral registers by the Working Party on Electoral Procedures. [61802]

  Mr. George Howarth
  The Working Party on Electoral Procedures has asked Home Office civil servants to consult further with commercial and other interests about business' concerns before the sale of the register is considered again in detail later in the Working Party's programme.

  Food Poisoning
  Mrs. Lait
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many cases of food poisoning have been reported in each year since 1995 caused by(a) turkeys eviscerated in retail premises, (h) turkeys eviscerated in retail premises which were improperly cooked, (c) turkeys eviscerated at abattoirs and (d) turkeys eviscerated at abattoirs which were improperly cooked. [61670]

  Ms Jowell
  I have been asked to reply.

  The majority of food poisoning notifications are sporadic cases which cannot normally be linked to a specific food vehicle. The most reliable data linking particular foods with infection is derived from the investigation of outbreaks. Information on outbreaks associated with food production processes such as those relating to the slaughter and evisceration of poultry is not available. The tables show the pathogens responsible for disease associated with the consumption of turkey products and the faults in food handling that investigators have identified as contributing to the transmission of infection in these outbreaks.

  General outbreaks of infectious intestinal disease reported to be associated with the consumption of turkey/turkey products, England & Wales 1995–97

  Organism

  1995

  1996

  1997

  Clostridium perfringens

  1

  —

  8

  Salmonella enteritidis PT4

  3

  4

  —

  Salmonella enteritidis other phage types

  1

  1

  2

  Salmonella typhimurium

  3

  1

  1

  Other salmonellas

  —

  1

  —

  Staphylococcus aureus

  —

  3

  —

  SRSV

  1

  —

  —

  Unknown

  —

  1

  —

  255

  General outbreaks of infectious intestinal disease reported to be associated with the consumption of turkey/turkey products, faults suspected to be contributory factors

  Organism

  Number of Outbreaks

  Infected food handler

  Inadequate heat treatment

  Cross contamination

  Inadequate storage

  1996

  Salmonella enteritidis PT4

  4

  1

  2

  4

  1

  Salmonella enteritidis other phage types

  1

  —

  1

  1

  —

  Salmonella typhimurium

  1

  —

  1

  1

  1

  Other salmonellas

  1

  —

  1

  —

  —

  Staphylococcus aureus

  3

  1

  —

  1

  3

  Unknown

  1

  —

  1

  —

  1

  1997

  Clostridium perfringens

  8

  —

  3

  1

  2

  Salmonella enteritidis PT4

  0

  —

  —

  —

  —

  Salmonella enteritidis other phage types

  2

  —

  —

  2

  1

  Salmonella typhimurium

  1

  —

  1

  —

  —

  Notes:

  Up to three food vehicles may be reported for a single outbreak. The outbreaks listed above are those in which at least one of the vehicles reported were a turkey based product more than one fault may be reported for an outbreak.

  Source:

  Public Health Laboratory Service Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre

CABINET OFFICE

  Ministerial E-mail Address
  Mr. Brake
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what is his e-mail address. [62563]

  Dr. Jack Cunningham
  My e-mail address is jcunningham@cabinet-office.gov.uk.

HEALTH

  Adverse Drug Reactions
  Mr. Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what research has been(a) conducted and (b) commissioned by his Department into the children in respect of whom yellow cards have been issued. [61621]

  Ms Jowell
  The Medicines Control Agency is funding, jointly with the National Health Service, Executive Trent, a pilot project for the reporting of suspected adverse drug reactions in children, entailing the establishment of a research unit at Derbyshire Children's Hospital run by Professor Imti Choonara of the University of Nottingham. The objectives of the project are to stimulate reporting of suspected adverse drug reactions occurring in children in the Trent region to the Medicines Control Agency and Committee on Safety of Medicines, to identify and investigate possible signals of new adverse drug reactions occurring in children and to determine the value of extending the scheme to other regions or nationally. The centre commenced work in September 1998 and will report on its progress in mid–1999.

  The current processes undertaken by the Medicines Control Agency for the evaluation of reports on yellow cards involve the identification and investigation of patterns suggesting new safety concerns, so that suitable steps can be taken to make sure that medicines are used as safely as possible.

  Mr. Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance his Department issues to GPs on informing people of potential side-effects of the use of MR or MMR vaccinations. [61610]
  256
  Ms Jowell
  A doctor must decide what information to pass on to a patient about the possible adverse reactions to any drug, including vaccines, and we would expect them to pass on all the relevant information to each patient. Full details of the contraindications to vaccination and the adverse reactions associated with measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are set out in the United Kingdom Health Departments' memorandum "Immunisation against Infectious Disease" which is issued to doctors. The chapter on MMR states:"Parents should be told about possible symptoms after immunisation".

  In addition, the Health Education Authority (HEA) produces a range of leaflets on immunisation, which give information on possible side effects. Details of possible adverse reactions to MMR vaccine are included in the leaflet "A Guide to Childhood Immunisations", which is given to new parents, and in the leaflet "Immunisation for School Leavers". The HEA also produces a range of factsheets, including two on MMR, to assist healthcare professionals in responding to more detailed queries from parents.

  Measles/rubella (MR) vaccine was used during the 1994 immunisation campaign. During the campaign all parents received an information leaflet/consent form and parents who were worried were advised to talk to their family doctor or school nurse. A letter from the Chief Medical and Nursing Officers, information and question and answer sheets were issued to all doctors and nurses either involved in giving the vaccine or in giving information on the campaign.

  Mr. Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance his Department has issued to GPs on conducting follow-up inquiries after the reporting of adverse health reactions on a yellow card. [61611]

  Ms Jowell
  On receipt of a yellow card, the Medicines Control Agency (MCA) sends out a letter to each reporter which reminds them to forward any further relevant information when available. Each yellow card report of a suspected adverse drug reaction is evaluated by the MCA. Where the information provided on a report is insufficient, the reporter is contacted for further details.
  257
  Reporters can at the time of reporting request an overview of the adverse reactions already reported in association with the suspect drug and this may stimulate the doctor to provide further information.

  Cosmetic Surgery
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will ensure that doctors are obliged to detail in writing the potential adverse consequences and dangers arising from a cosmetic surgical procedure. [61816]

  Mr. Hutton
  In obtaining consent to any surgical procedure medical practitioners must ensure that patients receive sufficient information presented in a form that they can understand about the intended procedure, the alternatives and any substantial risks.

  Human Fertilisation and Embryology
  Mr. Lock
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health when he intends to publish the report following the review by Professor Sheila McLean of the consent provisions in the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990. [62588]

  Ms Jowell
  I am pleased to announce that the Report of the Review of the common law provisions relating to the removal of human gametes (sperm or eggs) and of the consent provisions in the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 has been published today. Copies have been placed in the Library. The review, announced in February 1997, was conducted by Sheila McLean, Professor of Law and Ethics in Medicine at the University of Glasgow, and followed the Court of Appeal judgment in the case of R v. Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority ex parte Diane Blood.

  In September 1997 Professor McLean conducted a public consultation on the issues raised in the course of her review. Over 600 copies of her discussion document were issued, with 116 responses being received. We welcome Professor McLean's Report which, following a thorough and comprehensive review of the complex issues involved, has delivered sensible and well argued recommendations. These include:
  in terms of the common law provisions relating to the removal of human gametes the report recommends that the current requirement for formal consent following adequate disclosure of information, should remain;
  the courts should be asked to determine whether the removal of gametes is lawful where there is any doubt about such removal in cases where consent cannot be given in the usual way;
  the requirement in the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 for consent to certain treatment provided under the Act (such as in-vitro fertilisation and donor insemination) to be given in writing should remain, and be extended to all treatment provided under the Act; and
  that the 1990 Act should be amended to remove from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority any discretion to permit the export of human gametes that have been removed unlawfully.
  recommendations about the status of children born after the death of the gamete provider and the need for gamete providers to take account of succession rights of such children when storing gametes.

  Following Mrs. Blood's case, there was considerable public and parliamentary interest in such issues and in particular as to whether the existing provisions in the common law and the Human Fertilisation and Embryology
  258
  Act 1990 reflected clinical and lay opinion. We have decided, therefore, to seek public and professional views on the recommendations. These will be requested by the end of April, when we will consider the best way of taking the recommendations forward.

  We are very grateful to Professor Sheila McLean for having produced such a carefully considered Report.

  Mental Health
  Mr. Hesford
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health when he will lay a revised version of the Code of Practice on the Mental Health Act 1983 before the House. [62773]

  Mr. Hutton
  We have today laid copies of a revised version of the Code of Practice on the Mental Health Act 1983 before the House, in accordance with Section 118(4) of the Act. Copies are available in the Library.

  Acquired Brain Injuries
  Mr. Burstow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health, pursuant to his answer of 27 November 1998,Official Report, column 26, concerning services for people with brain injuries, when the draft guidance will be ready for consultation. [62200]

  Mr. Hutton
  The draft guidance should be ready for consultation by the summer of 1999.

  Road Accidents (NHS Charges)
  Mr. Dismore
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much, in each of the last three years, Wellhouse NHS trust(a) recovered from insurance companies for the cost of treatment and (b) spent on treating road accident victims. [62288]

  Mr. Hutton
  Information on the cost of treating road accident victims at the Wellhouse National Health Service Trust is not available. The trust received the following income under the provisions of sections 157 and 158 of the Road Traffic Act 1988:

  Year

  Income (£000)

  1995–96

  52

  1996–97

  45

  1997–98

  30

  Source:

  1. Annual summarisation schedules 1997–98

  2. Annual financial returns 1995–96 and 1996–97

  The Road Traffic (NHS Charges) Bill, introduced to the House of Commons on 27 November 1998, will provide a centralised system of collection for Road Traffic Act charges. This will relieve hospitals of the administrative burden associated with this task and ensure that more cases are identified and that more income is returned directly to the hospital providing the care.

  Cardiac Disease (Staffordshire)
  Mr. Fabricant
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the percentage of patients who achieve return of spontaneous circulation at the point of admission following(a) cardiac arrests and (h) heart attack having been delivered to (i) Stafford General Hospital, (ii) Burton District General Hospital and

  259
  (iii) Good Hope Hospital, Sutton Coldfield by the Staffordshire Ambulance Service for each of the last two financial years. [61902]

  Ms Jowell
  The information for part(a) is listed in the table. Many patients suffering a heart attack (myocardial infarction) do not have a cardiac arrest and do not lose spontaneous circulation. These are therefore not included in the table.

  Percentage

  Hospital

  1996–97

  1997–98

  Stafford General

  20.5

  19.0

  Burton District General Hospital

  17.1

  19.0

  Good Hope

  22.9

  15.2

  Source:

  Staffordshire Ambulance Service Cardiac Arrest Audit April 1997—March 1998

  Pre-pregnancy Care
  Mr. Field
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what provision he plans to make for pre-pregnancy care of women of childbearing age, following the Acheson report concerning inequalities in health. [62286]

  Mr. Hutton
  The Acheson Report drew attention to improvements in health and life expectancy associated with income and living standards. The Government are firmly committed to improving the living standards of the poorest households and are already taking a number of measures that will help to achieve this. We shall be considering Sir Donald Acheson's recommendations as a whole in the development of a new health strategy, and we shall publish a White Paper early next year.

  Independent Pharmacists
  Mr. Simon Hughes
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the average length of the time taken, by region, by his Department to pay independent pharmacists for the cost of medicines dispensed. [62068]

  Mr. Milburn
  A payment representing approximately 80 per cent. of the amount due for dispensing prescriptions is made to community pharmacists on the first day of the month following that in which correctly endorsed prescriptions are received for pricing at the prescription pricing authority. The balance is paid on the first day of the following month once prescriptions have been fully processed.

  Renal Services
  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health for what reasons the North West Lancashire, Morecambe Bay and South Cumbria, East Lancashire, and South Lancashire health authorities have not agreed a policy to fund an expansion of the renal unit at the Royal Preston Hospital; and if he will make a statement. [61743]

  Mr. Milburn
  The four health authorities support the recommendations of the pan-Lancashire review of renal services, which reported last year. That review recommended the development of a "hub-and-spoke" model for long term renal care; a hub in Preston and satellite units in Accrington, Blackpool and Kendal. The authorities agreed additional revenue for 1998–99 to implement the model in the short term, essentially by 260
  maximizing the use of existing local facilities. They have also set up a working group to determine how resources should be allocated in future years.

  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what amount was spent per head of population on renal services in each health authority area in England in the year for which he has the most up-to-date data. [61744]

  Mr. Milburn
  In terms of global budget, 1.5 per cent. of National Health Service revenue was spent on renal services in 1996. Information about the amount spent per capita on renal services in each health authority in England is not available.

  NHS Work Force (Health)
  Helen Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the savings to the NHS budget which could be made by implementing the recommendations in the report, Improving the Health of the NHS Workforce; and if he will make a statement. [62116]

  Mr. Milburn
  It is difficult to estimate, at this stage, what savings might accrue from the successful implementation of the recommendations of the Nuffield report, but it is acknowledged that a reduction of 1 per cent. in staff sickness absence would release £140 million per annum for patient care.

  Special Hospitals
  Helen Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what steps his Department has taken to ensure that staff working in special hospitals understand their role within the complaints system; [62118]

  (2) what action his Department is taking to improve the methods for selecting and training staff who work with newly admitted patients in special hospitals. [62117]

  Mr. Hutton
  It is for each high security (special) hospital to determine the methods to be employed in selecting staff to work in the hospital, and to ensure that they receive any necessary advice, training and education to enable them to perform the full range of their duties.

  A seminar is being held in each region in England and in Wales, looking at training, work force planning and education issues relating to people working with mentally disordered offenders (MDOs). This programme covers the whole range of agencies and disciplines who have an involvement with MDOs, whether in secure settings or in the community. It aims to identify the core and specialist skills required to work successfully with MDOs and to develop efficient and effective training, work force planning and education strategies within each region.

  Reflex Sympathetic Disorder
  Mr. Pickthall
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what is his estimate of the numbers of United Kingdom citizens currently suffering from reflex sympathetic disorder; how many are registered disabled; and what research the NHS has conducted into (i) the causes of and (ii) potential cures for the disorder. [61901]
  261
  Mr. Hutton
  The information requested is not available in the form required. No research is currently taking place in relation to reflex sympathetic disorder. However, the National Health Service provides a wide range of services for people with neurological diseases.

NORTHERN IRELAND

  Environmental Pollution
  Mr. Donaldson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many successful prosecutions for environmental pollution there have been by the Health and Safety Executive against operators of illegal gas and oil retailing points in Northern Ireland. [61921]

  Mr. Paul Murphy
  Responsibility for the subject in question has been delegated to the Environment and Heritage Service under its chief executive, Mr. Robert C. Martin. I have asked him to arrange for a reply to be given.

  Letter from Robert C. Martin to Mr. Jeffrey Donaldson, dated 3 December 1998:

  As Chief Executive of the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS), I am responsible for the operational aspects of environmental protection. While question No 1259 refers to prosecutions for environmental pollution, it specifically refers to the Health and Safety Executive and retailing issues, and therefore I have been asked to co-ordinate the reply on behalf of Department of Economic Development's Health and Safety Inspectorate and Department of Environment's Local Government Branch.

  EHS is responsible for the control of pollution of waterways under the provisions of the Water Act 1972. There have been no reports of pollution from illegal gas or oil retailing points in Northern Ireland and therefore no prosecutions have been taken. Similarly, there are no reports of pollution from illegal petrol retailing points.

  The Industrial Pollution Control Order 1997 includes controls on Petrol Vapour Recovery at retailing points. Petrol retailers have until 31 December 1998 to submit applications for registration to District Councils. No prosecutions have been taken.

  The Health and Safety Executive is a Great Britain organisation which has no remit in Northern Ireland. The major responsibility for Health and Safety at Work legislation in Northern Ireland lies with the Department of Economic Development under the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978. Since this Order does not deal with environmental pollution, the Department of Economic Development is not empowered to prosecute in cases where environmental pollution occur.

  District Councils have an enforcement role under the provisions of the Health and Safety at Work Order in relation to retail premises which would include retailing of gas cylinders.

  District Councils are also the licencing authority for petroleum retailing. I understand that the information relating to licencing is not held centrally.

  I hope this reply is helpful.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS

  Burma
  Mr. Alan Simpson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make it his policy to support the imposition of financial sanctions on the regime in Burma. [62040]
  262
  Mr. Fatchett
  At the October meeting of the General Affairs Council of the EU, a decision was taken to toughen the EU common position against Burma. At present there is no EU consensus for economic and financial sanctions.

  Sri Lanka
  Mr. Cox
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many applications for entry visas made in Sri Lanka for entry into the United Kingdom have been(a) granted and (b) refused in the last 12 months. [62182]

  Mr. Fatchett
  During the period October 1997 to October 1998, the British High Commission in Columbo processed 15,516 visa applications. Of these, 14,846 resulted in the issue of a visa and 670 were refused.

  Hinduja
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what grant applications his Department has received from the Hinduja group of companies since 1 May 1997; and what grants have been paid. [62242]

  Mr. Fatchett
  We have received no grant application from the Hinduja family or their companies since 1 May 1997, nor have we made any grants to them.

  Middle East Peace Process
  Mr. Tredinnick
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had concerning the Middle East Peace Process; with whom; and if he will make a statement. [62197]

  Mr. Fatchett
  I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the House on 1 December 1998,Official Report, column 656, by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary.

ENVIRONMENT, TRANSPORT AND THE REGIONS

  Accommodation (Homeless People)
  Mr. Crausby
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will take steps to ensure that social landlords offer accommodation to homeless people with drug problems. [61159]

  Mr. Raynsford
  The White Paper "Tackling Drugs to Build a Better Britain", issued in April 1998, sets out the Government's anti-drugs strategy for the next 10 years. This includes a proposal that senior representatives of local housing authorities are included in the core, multi-agency membership of Drug Action Teams, to ensure that housing initiatives are included in local strategies designed to meet the needs of people with drug problems. In addition, the new body to tackle rough sleeping in London, where the problems are most intense, will put in place a programme of outreach support and
  263
  hostels which will target the needs of people with drug problems who sleep rough in the Capital and who are not ready to move directly into a permanent social tenancy.

  Under the homelessness legislation, local housing authorities must assist people who are unintentionally homeless and vulnerable because of ill health or other special reason; this includes those who are vulnerable because of drug problems. And in allocating permanent social tenancies, local housing authorities must give reasonable preference to persons with medical or welfare problems, among others. Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) already provide 700 units of supported accommodation specifically for people with drug problems, and also manage a number of hostels for homeless people which provide support for this client group. The Housing Corporation is currently developing good practice guidance for RSLs on strategies for providing residential services to drug users, in conjunction with the United Kingdom Anti-Drugs Co-ordinator.

  Council Tax
  Mr. O'Hara
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what would have been the additional council tax at Band D equivalent of each local authority if they had increased their spending by £100 per person, including all precepts, for 1998–99. [61667]

  Ms Armstrong
  The information requested has been placed in the Library.

  Column 1

  Column 2

  Column 3

  Column 4

  Column 5

  Column 6

  First round (pacemakers)

  Bethnal Green

  2,719

  6,948

  39

  79,114

  360

  139,000

  Bradford

  4,432

  4,347

  46

  136,897

  196

  128,714

  Dearne Valley

  1,437

  4,955

  997

  64,824

  92

  95,858

  Deptford

  10,445

  4,425

  72

  154,223

  273

  389,556

  Hulme

  2,215

  1,481

  65

  36,744

  96

  81,500

  Liverpool

  743

  4,165

  14

  146,639

  378

  112,103

  Middlesbrough

  1,765

  3,774

  132

  28,617

  214

  30,152

  Newcastle

  1,922

  4,384

  70

  61,245

  261

  61,674

  Nottingham

  8,069

  2,585

  37

  40,566

  141

  63,725

  Wirral

  3,107

  2,758

  62

  186,704

  213

  101,240

  Wolverhampton

  2,769

  3,173

  52

  108,750

  124

  85,861

  Round 2

  Barnsley

  2,496

  1,819

  158

  86,898

  226

  56,894

  Batley

  4,955

  8,437

  279

  180,978

  125

  122,074

  Blackburn

  3,202

  5,446

  58

  193,346

  192

  134,056

  Bolton

  3,172

  7,257

  73

  220,773

  291

  104,405

  Bootle

  1,845

  6,408

  149

  194,276

  208

  147,989

  Brixton

  7,060

  6,528

  9

  156,454

  644

  72,777

  Dalston

  2,933

  9,990

  35

  107,109

  574

  113,883

  Derby

  3,793

  6,432

  44

  88,383

  214

  81,942

  Harlesden

  416

  9,648

  45

  213,075

  635

  220,517

  Hartlepool

  1,980

  3,618

  65

  86,809

  194

  70,803

  Leicester

  3,590

  2,284

  31

  47,998

  218

  102,624

  Newton South Aston

  3,594

  8,323

  27

  94,875

  119

  100,114

  North Kensington

  6,575

  3,371

  54

  16,449

  911

  64,332

  Stockton on Tees

  4,190

  5,287

  187

  96,525

  225

  70,771

  Stratford

  2,803

  4,986

  80

  89,168

  406

  144,706

  Sunderland

  6,776

  9,762

  496

  40,130

  224

  68,104

  Tipton

  2,123

  1,834

  67

  27,303

  268

  75,700

  Walshall

  3,616

  4,391

  170

  62,796

  145

  128,658

  Wigon

  2,292

  10,725

  123

  293,296

  386

  151,300

  Notes:

  Column 1 Dwellings complete/improved

  Column 2 Jobs created/preserved

  Column 3 Land reclaimed/improved (hectares)

  Column 4 New/improved business and commercial floorspace (sq. m.)

  Column 5 Business start-ups

  Column 6 Private sector leverage (£000s)

  Local Government Finance
  Mr. O'Hara
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what was the value of the resources top-sliced from the 1998–99 RSG settlement to finance the area cost adjustment. [61668]

  Ms Armstrong
  The contribution of the area cost adjustment to standard spending assessments for 1998–99 was £1,576 million.

  Countryside Access
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he plans to publish the Government's analysis of the response to their consultation paper on access to the open countryside in England and Wales; and if he will make a statement. [61642]

  Mr. Meacher
  I cannot go further than my earlier reply of 9 November 1998,Official Report, column 10, that we intend to do so shortly.

  City Challenge
  Mr. Vaz
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what the final key outputs were for the 11 first-round and the 19 completed second-round city challenge schemes. [61716]

  Mr. Caborn
  The Department has been noticed as part of the final reporting process, of the key output data, covering the five years of funding for the first and the completed second round City Challenge schemes. The figures, which are subject to verification by the appropriate Government Offices and set out in the table.

  Aviation
  Miss McIntosh
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) what representations he has received in respect of United Kingdom airlines' access to the United States civil aviation market, with particular reference to rights of(a) cabotage and (b) ownership of United States airlines; and if he will make a statement; [61795]

  (2) what representations he has received on the negotiations on the bilateral air transport relations between the United States and the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement. [61790]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  My Department has received representations from numerous sources in the UK and US about the liberalisation of UK/US air services. The two issues of cabotage and ownership of airlines have featured prominently in the representations from UK-based organisations. The UK hopes to conclude a new liberal agreement with the US which provides genuinely equal opportunities for airlines of both countries.

  Sparsity Allowances
  Mr. Paul Marsden
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) if sparsity allowance is included in the social services standard spending assessment of county councils; and if he will make a statement; [61829]

  (2) if he will make a statement on the future levels of sparsity allowance for shire counties. [61830]

  Ms Armstrong
  My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister made a statement on 2 December 1998,Official Report, columns 883–901, about our proposals for Standard Spending Assessments for 1999–2000, including the allowances to be made for sparsity of population. These proposals include, for the first time, a sparsity allowance in the element of the Standard Spending Assessment for social services for the elderly in their own homes.

  Air Pollution
  Mr. Baker
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions for what reasons aviation emissions are not covered by international agreements on limiting greenhouse gases. [61897]

  Mr. Meacher
  [holding answer 2 December 1998]: Aviation emissions of greenhouse gases are indeed covered by the Climate Change Convention and the Kyoto Protocol. Emissions from domestic flights are covered by UK commitments to reduce greenhouse gases. Emissions from international flights are not "allocated" to individual countries at present but are the subject of separate requirements to take preventive action, particularly through the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

  Bus Fuel Rebate Scheme
  Dr. Iddon
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will rebate the tax paid on fuel by Ring and Ride (Greater Manchester Accessible Transport Ltd.) on the same basis as that which applies to commercial bus operators. [62101]
  266
  Ms Glenda Jackson
  I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for High Peak (Mr. Levitt) on 2 November 1998,Official Report, column 307.

  Community Transport
  Judy Mallaber
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to receive the report commissioned by his Department on community transport. [62110]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  The national review of voluntary and community transport has now been completed and a summary of its main findings has been presented this week to delegates at the annual Community Transport conference for their views and comments. The final report will be available early in the New Year.

  Channel Tunnel Rail Link
  Mr. Snape
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many of the environmental protection measures proposed for the second phase of the channel tunnel rail link between Ebbsfleet and St. Pancras are a specific requirement of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link Act 1996. [62107]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  Additional tunnelling in the approach to St. Pancras and at Barking and revised alignment of the track at Thurrock and Rainham were provided partly for environmental reasons and are required by the 1996 Act. Other environmental protection measures may arise from the detailed planning approval granted under the provisions of the 1996 Act by the local planning authorities.

  Mr. Snape
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what estimate his Department has made of the value for money of the environmental protection measures included in design for the second phase of the Channel Tunnel Rail Line between Ebbsfleet and St. Pancras; and if he will make a statement. [62108]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  We have not sought to make such an estimate, partly because few CTRL works in section two are exclusively for environmental protection, but primarily because there is no reliable means of apportioning costs between environmentally protective and other works.

  Eurostar
  Mr. Snape
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what representations he has received since 8 May 1997 from residents near the railway line between the channel tunnel and London concerning noise from Eurostar trains. [62109]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  We have received a number of representations from residents near the railway line between the channel tunnel and London concerning noise from the horns of Eurostar trains. I understand from Eurostar that the levels of these horns comply with the rules governing international railway operations and are required by railway safety regulations.

  Housing
  Mr. Burns
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions for what reason the Government have decided not to issue an approved code of practice, covering issues raised in Circular 12/92 entitled "Guidance to Local Housing Authorities on Standards of Fitness" under section 352 of the Housing Act 1985; and if he will make a statement. [62122]

  Mr. Raynsford
  We have decided against introducing an Approved Code of Practice for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) as we consider that our existing powers do not enable us to produce an effective and workable code that would deliver the standards we want HMOs to achieve in the longer term.

  We will be consulting on proposed standards for the licensing scheme we are committed to introduce for HMOs. Once these standards have been agreed we will publish them and issue guidance to authorities on how they might begin to apply them prior to the introduction of licensing.

  Mr. Burns
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what proposals the Government have to provide a statutory definition of multiple occupation houses following the Barnes v. Sheffield City Council case; and if he will make a statement. [62123]

  Mr. Raynsford
  We hope to issue a consultation document on our proposals for a licensing scheme for houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) early in the New Year. The consultation document will address the issue of HMO definition, with the objective of clarifying the uncertainty that surrounds it following cases such as Barnes v. Sheffield City Council.

  Mr. Rammell
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the housing developments of over 10,000 homes which his Department has approved for planning purposes since 1985 indicating(a) the date of approval and (b) the local planning authority. [62070]

  Mr. Raynsford
  This information is not readily available.

  Express Transit, Nottingham
  Mr. Geraint Davies
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to make an announcement on funding for the Nottingham Express Transit light rail scheme; and if he will make a statement. [62530]

  Dr. Reid
  I am delighted to announce today that the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) is to go ahead.

  The Government are to provide £167 million of revenue support to Nottingham City Council so it can fund its side of the deal. The NET is an early local authority Private Finance Initiative (PFI) project.

  The project is the culmination of years of hard work and is an excellent example of central and local Government working together to bring real benefits to the local community. This is illustrated by our support for this
  268
  project. Over the next few years the NET will take up a large part of my Department's allocation of resources for local authority PFI projects. We will not be in a position to support similar light rail schemes in this way for the foreseeable future.

  As we set out in "New Deal for Transport: Better for Everyone", the transport White Paper published in July, we aim to give local authorities greater input into providing tailored transport solutions. This is reflected in the recently issued draft guidance to help Local Authorities to formulate local transport plans which are a core part of our proposals to deliver integrated transport strategies at the local level.

  Public Utilities
  Mr. Andrew George
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the need for a national strategy to deal with the disruption caused to local communities when companies seek to lay water, gas, electricity and telecommunication services along essential transport routes. [61313]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  As the White Paper "New Deal for Transport: Better for Everyone" makes clear, we intend to consult on options for an incentive system, with penalties, to minimise disruption to all road users, and to encourage improved co-ordination of road works. I expect to begin this process in the New Year.

  Sussex Downs Conservation Board
  Mr. Gibb
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the future of the Sussex Downs Conservation Board after 31 March 2001. [62121]

  Mr. Meacher
  We are still giving detailed consideration to the Countryside Commission's formal advice on protecting our finest countryside including the future arrangements for the Sussex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is a great deal to consider but we hope to announce some conclusions soon. The future of the Board will depend upon the decisions taken.

  Uniform Business Rate
  Mr. David Heath
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the effects of the uniform business rate on small businesses. [61305]

  Mr. Raynsford
  In 1995 my Department published a research report "The Impact of Rates on businesses" which indicated that rates were a significantly greater burden for small businesses—those with turnovers of under £100,000—than for larger businesses. As stated in our White Paper "Modern Local Government: In Touch with the People", we are discussing with business representatives the details of a possible scheme to reduce this burden on small businesses.

  Swimming Pools
  Dr. Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many
  269
  swimming pools are currently operated by each local authority; and what were the corresponding figures (a) five years ago and (b) 10 years ago. [62375]

  Mr. Raynsford
  This information is not centrally available.

  Disabled People
  Mr. Oaten
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many external members of the 18 policy action teams referred to in the Social Exclusion Unit report, "Bringing Britain Together: A National Strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal", represent the interests of disabled people; and if he will make a statement. [62232]

  Ms Armstrong
  The Policy Action Teams include a cross membership of those who have particular professional expertise in the issues to be addressed, and of those who live or work in poor neighbourhoods. Policy Action Team 4 (Neighbourhood Management) includes a representative from the Leonard Cheshire Foundation. Policy Action Team 16 (Learning Lessons) includes a representative from Business in the Community who is also Chair of the National Disability Council and a member of the Disabled Right Task Force. All the Teams will consult far more widely than their own membership, and will welcome contributions from individuals and groups representing the interests of disabled people.

  Domestic Water Customers
  Mr. Ruane
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the practice by Thames Water and Welsh Water of disconnecting domestic customers. [62249]

  Mr. Meacher
  The Government regard it as unacceptable that anyone should be deprived of water supplies to their home because of an inability to pay. The Water Industry Bill, introduced on 25 November, includes provisions which, if agreed by Parliament, would make it an offence to disconnect water supplies to dwellings, schools or hospitals for non-payment of charges.

  At present, water companies have powers to disconnect water supplies to homes for non-payment, under the Water Industry Act 1991. Water undertakers are also required to operate a code of practice on debt and disconnection and to have regard to guidance issued by the Director General of Water Services. The Government welcome the reductions in the numbers of customers disconnected in recent years. Nine water companies in England and Wales made no household disconnections for failure to pay water service bills in the first half of 1998–99.

  Mr. Ruane
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the Director General of OFWAT for not taking enforcement action against Welsh Water in respect of budget payment units and trickle-flow meters and delays in removing the remaining meters. [62248]

  Mr. Meacher
  I understand that the Director General of Water Services has told Welsh Water that he requires an undertaking from the company that it will remove any disconnection element from the budget payment units 270
  currently installed, including any trickle flow valves, by May 1999. Failing receipt of such an undertaking he will take enforcement action.

  Conveyancing
  Charlotte Atkins
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to announce the outcome of the Government's review of the home buying and selling process; and if he will make a statement. [62585]

  Ms Armstrong
  The report of the Government's research into the home buying and selling process will be published on Monday 7 December. At the same time, we will publish a consultation paper setting out a package of proposals for making the process quicker, easier and more efficient. The package will propose action by all the parties involved in the process, but before reaching final conclusions we want to stimulate wide debate about both the problems and the best ways of dealing with them. Copies of the consultation paper will be available from the Vote Office. Copies of the consultation paper and the research report will also be placed in the Library of both Houses.

  Land Use Planning
  Mr. Watts
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what controls he envisages to give effect to the land use planning requirements of the COMAH Directive; and if he will make a statement. [62586]

  Mr. Caborn
  The Government have today issued draft Regulations to implement the land use requirements of Directive 96/82/EC on the Control of Major Accident Hazards.

  Amendments are to be made to the Planning Hazardous Substances consents procedures to implement these provisions of the Directive while maintaining existing health and safety standards where these differ from the Directive. Changes to the Development Plan Regulations will ensure that local planning authorities take account of the requirements of the Directive when drawing up their development plans.

  Work Equipment
  Mr. Ivan Henderson
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what the Government have done to meet the concerns of the plant and equipment hire industry over the introduction of the new Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. [62787]

  Mr. Meale
  As my hon. Friend knows, I met recently with the hon. Members for Banbury (Mr. Baldry) and for Eastleigh (Mr. Chidgey) and representatives of both hire and lease companies and the construction industry. I am grateful to the hon. Members for helping to facilitate what was a very useful meeting. I am grateful also to many Members of the House who have written to me about this issue and for the very helpful advice I received from the Health and Safety Commission. At the meeting we agreed a practical way forward within the law which is acceptable to the industry and which will allow companies to meet their duties. Representatives of the plant and equipment hire industry and other trade associations have
  271
  now agreed with HSE that hire companies should prepare an action plan in which they will identify the mobile work equipment that needs to be modified or adapted to comply with the new requirements of the Directive. They will also need to prioritise within the action plan the modifications which are needed, according to risk, and ensure that the new requirements are met.

  Guidance has been produced for duty holders which explains what they will need to do to comply with Regulations 26 and 27 of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. I will arrange for a copy of this guidance to be placed in the Library of this House.

  I have asked the Health and Safety Commission to keep the situation under close review.

SOCIAL SECURITY

  Lone Parents
  Mrs. Fyfe
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if a single parent claiming income support will be able to have one interview to cover New Deal, income support, housing benefit, Child Support Agency and other benefit-related matters. [60873]

  Angela Eagle
  Personal advisers working in the New Deal for Lone Parents already offer lone parents on Income Support a comprehensive package of support and advice.

  The DSS and the London Borough of Camden are already working together to pilot new arrangements for lone parents.

  From June 1999 we will also pilot a more integrated service through the Single Work Focused Gateway. This will start in four areas from June, with a further eight pilots from November 1999.

  At initial contact if appropriate an interview will be arranged within three working days usually held at the office. The interview will be conducted by a personal adviser who will provide a balanced package of work focused help and financial support. The adviser will be able to access information on the options available and provide a personalised calculation of potential in-work income including tax credits. Information on Housing Benefit and Child Support issues will be available at this point of entry.

  Child Support Agency
  Mr. Bob Russell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what valuation is made of(a) a company car and (b) a company grant for an employee to acquire a car for company business, in formulating CSA payments. [60858]

  Angela Eagle
  The value of a company car is not taken into consideration in determining the income of either parent under the maintenance formula.
  272
  The treatment of an allowance paid by an employer for the purchase of a car will depend on the intended use. Where it is for business purposes only, the whole allowance will be ignored in determining income. Where there is a degree of private use, the amount taken into account will be that portion of the allowance which it is considered covers the parent's private usage.

  The Green Paper "Children First—a new approach to child support" (Cm 3992) published on 6 July sets out our proposals for a new child support scheme, including a simpler definition of what counts as income.

  Benefit Take-up
  Mr. Wigley
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what steps he is taking to encourage the take up of(a) housing benefit, (b) income support, (c) family credit and (d) council tax benefits. [61472]

  Angela Eagle
  We want all those who are entitled to benefits to claim them, and we are taking action to encourage them to do so.

  All local authorities are under a Statutory duty to publicise and promote maximum take-up of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. This Department provides guidance and advice to authorities to help them maximise the effectiveness of take-up campaigns and we will continue to do so. Take-up rates for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit are already consistently high.

  We have recently completed research into why some pensioners do not claim their Income Support entitlement, and a series of pilots to test ways of identifying them and encouraging them to claim. We are currently evaluating the results before deciding how best to proceed.

  From June to August 1998 we conducted a national advertising campaign to encourage take up of working benefits including Family Credit. This included advertising on television, radio and in women's magazines. Additionally, all lone parents whose children are over 5 years old are now invited for interviews and advised as to the availability of working benefits and provided with any help needed to claim their entitlement. These initiatives supplement the ongoing provision of information leaflets and advice through the Family Credit helpline.

  Disabled Students
  Mr. Wigley
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many(a) part-time and (b) full-time students have been in receipt of (i) disability living allowance, (ii) severe disablement allowance, (iii) disabled student allowance and (iv) other disability-related benefits in each of the last five years for which figures are available. [61468]

  Mr. Timms
  The information on the number of part time or full time students in receipt of disability living allowance, severe disablement allowance or other disability related benefits is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

  Information on Disabled Student Allowance is not available in the form requested. Such information as is available is in the table.
  273

  The number of disabled students' allowances made by local education authorities in England and Wales as part of mandatory awards in the academic years 1992–93 to 1996–97

  Academic year

  Number of awards

  1992–93

  2,490

  1993–94

  4,050

  1994–95

  5,320

  1995–96

  6,550

  1996–97

  8,120

  Notes:

  1. The Disabled Students Allowance forms part of the mandatory award. There are three separate allowances—that for specialist equipment; for non-medical helpers; and the general Disabled Students Allowance. Mandatory awards are payable to personally eligible students attending full-time or sandwich courses leading to a first-degree or comparable qualification. DipHE or HND courses and postgraduate courses of initial teacher training.

  2. The table shows the number of awards, not the number of students. Students can receive more than one type of disabled students allowance.

  3. The table shows the number of awards made by local education authorities to students normally domiciled in their area (in England and Wales).

  4. The number of awards is rounded to the nearest 10.

  5. Information for 1996–97 is the latest available.

  Back-to-work Bonus
  Jackie Ballard
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many claimants have(a) received and (b) been refused the back-to-work bonus. [61913]

  Angela Eagle
  The information is in the table.

  Back to Work Bonus statistics

  All claimants

  Claimants with an accrued bonus at the end of October 19981

  150,000

  Number of bonus payments made from October 1996 to October 1998

  81,000

  Total amount of bonus payments made from October 1996 to October 1998

  £20,574,000

  Number of cases where a claim for a Bonus payment was unsuccessful, up to October 19982

  31,000

  1 Live claims on ISCS and JSAPS with a bonus accrual plus claims which have ended with a bonus accrual but no bonus payment has been made (claimants who return to benefit within 12 weeks and have not claimed a bonus retain the amount accrued during the previous claim).

  2 Reasons for unsuccessful claims include: No Back to Work Bonus amount had accrued; the claim for a Bonus payment was received outside the limit of 12 weeks for making a claim.

  Note:

  Data based on information held on the Income Support Computer System (ISCS) and the Jobseeker's Allowance Payment System (JSAPS). No clerically processed claims included. Excludes JSAPS activity for November 1996. Numbers are rounded to the nearest thousand.

  Source:

  Back to Work Bonus management information statistics.

  Welfare Reform
  Mr. Field
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when the Government expect to publish their response to the submissions made on the Green Paper on Welfare Reform. [61797]

  Mr. Denham
  The Green Paper on Welfare Reform set out a clear philosophy for the welfare state. "Work for those who can, security for those who cannot" is the 274
  foundation of our programme. It received overwhelming support. The public's response demonstrated first a widespread recognition of the need for welfare reform, and secondly, endorsement of our approach. We are now responding by putting those principles into practice.

  On 28 October, we published three documents, "A new contract for welfare: Principles into Practice", which set out the significant progress that has already been made on welfare reform; "A new contract for welfare: Support for Disabled People", which set out detailed proposals to reform benefits for people with a long-term illness or disability; and "A new contract for welfare: The Gateway to Work", which set out plans for a single gateway to the welfare system.

  We also published on 18 November "A new contract for welfare: Support in Bereavement" which set out proposals to reform bereavement benefits.

  As announced in the Queen's Speech, we will introduce a Welfare Reform Bill in the current session. We will make further announcements in due course.

  Contributions Agency Computer
  Mr. Whittingdale
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he expects the backlog of cases caused by the failure of the Contributions Agency computer to be cleared; and if he will make a statement. [61936]

  Mr. Timms
  The NIRS2 computer system is a large and complex system and there have been some delays and problems in its introduction, which the House was made aware of on the 5 November.

  Backlogs of work have built up in both the Contributions Agency and the Benefits Agency as a consequence of the delays and problems with NIRS2. Both Agencies however, invoked contingency arrangements wherever possible to reduce the effect on customers.

  The Contributions Agency and the Benefits Agency are working together to develop plans to clear backlogs as the new systems facilities become available, staff are able to address the backlogs caused by the absence of those facilities. For example, the backlog of requests for data protection printouts has been eliminated since 18 November 1998. It is not yet possible, however, to predict with certainty the date when all the backlogs will be cleared.

  British Pensioners (Overseas)
  Sir Teddy Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security which Commonwealth nations have negotiated reciprocal arrangements to enable British pensioners living abroad to receive annual increases; and if he will make a statement on reciprocal arrangements with Kenya. [62035]

  Mr. Denham
  Pensioners living in the following Commonwealth countries receive annual UK State Pension increases: The Bahamas, Barbados, Cyprus, Jamaica, Malta and Mauritius. There is no reciprocal Social Security agreement between the UK and Kenya.

  Family Credit
  Mr. Webb
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what was the source for her estimate in
  275
  her answer of 16 November 1998, Official Report, column 592, that in 50 per cent. of couples receiving family credit the main earner is female. [62246]

  Angela Eagle
  The Family Credit Quarterly Statistical Enquiry for May 1998 shows that of the 767,000 families receiving Family Credit, 59 per cent. (452,000 families) have a female main earner.

  Note:

  Figures are rounded to the nearest thousand.

  Source:

  Family Credit Quarterly Statistical Enquiry May 1998 (5 per cent. sample of awards).

  Ministerial E-mail Address
  Mr. Brake
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what is his e-mail address. [62567]

  Mr. Darling
  Ministers may be contacted at the following address: ministers@ade006.dss.gov.uk.

  Child Support
  Mr. MacShane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he will publish the Chief Child Support Officer's Annual Report for 1997–98. [62587]

  Angela Eagle
  The Annual Report of the Chief Child Support Officer (CCSO) for the year 1997–98 is published today. The Report highlights the damaging effect of the excessive complexity of the current maintenance formula.

  We are determined to address the problems which the CCSO has identified by tackling the root causes of inaccuracy in child support assessments. The Child Support Agency has already begun to improve the way that it collects information by making greater use of the telephone, actively managing self-employed cases and by freeing local staff to allow more face-to-face contact with parents. The provisions in the 1998 Social Security Act which streamline and simplify the decision making process will be implemented in the Child Support Agency from June 1999. These changes will support further work in the Agency to improve the service that it offers to all its clients.

  The proposals for reform will result in a radically simpler system which focuses on a rapid, transparent, and accurate assessment of liability. Improving standards of service is central to our proposed reforms and we are committed to avoiding the complexity which results in the problems identified by the CCSO.

WALES

  Jobseeker's Allowance
  Mr. Wigley
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many 18 to 24 year olds in Wales have lost their jobseekers allowance as a result of refusing all four options in the New Deal. [61469]

  Mr. Hain
  Up until the end of October 1998, out of a total of almost 12,000 young people who entered the New Deal Gateway in Wales, 95 young people have had their jobseekers allowance temporarily suspended because,276
  without good cause, they failed or refused to start a New Deal option or left an option early, or because they were dismissed from a New Deal option due to misconduct.

  Prescription Claims
  Mr. Denzil Davies
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what action he has taken to refund to the claimants for prescription payment certificates the additional amounts due to them following the acceptance by the Treasury Solicitor in Case No. LIC01071 between R. M. Wordley and the Welsh Office (Treasury Solicitor Ref. L9618316H JBM/LS) of Mr. Wordley's interpretation of Regulation 9 of S.I., 1989, No. 419 as amended. [61831]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  There are no outstanding claims for payment. The case of Wordley v. Secretary of State for Wales was settled in February 1997, without admission of liability.

  Rheumatoid Arthritis
  Mr. Opik
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what resources his Department provides to Dyfed Powys Health Authority for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis; and if he will make a statement. [61914]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  In 1998–99 Dyfed Powys received £237.8 million in discretionary resources, £8.4 million, or 3.6 per cent. more than in 1997–98. It is a matter for the health authority to determine how these funds should be used to provide an appropriate range of health services to its resident population, taking into account the pattern of local health need.

  Mr. Opik
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what the average provision of rheumatologists per hundred thousand people is for Welsh health authorities; and if he will make a statement; [61916]

  (2) how many rheumatologists are employed by the Dyfed Powys Health Authority; and if he will make a statement. [61915]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  Information on hospital medical staff directly employed by the NHS in Wales is collected in an annual census relating to staff in post at 30 September. Health authorities do not directly employ hospital medical staff. The number and rate of rheumatologists employed by NHS trusts, grouped by health authority ares, are shown in the following table. It should be noted, however, that health authorities are free to purchase services from any health provider.

  Consultants

  Other staff

  Total

  Number2

  Rate3

  Number3

  Rate2

  Number2

  Rate3

  Health authority area

  Bro Taf

  3.9

  5.3

  7.3

  9.9

  11.2

  15.2

  Dyfed Powys

  0.3

  0.6

  0.1

  0.2

  0.4

  0.8

  Gwent

  2.4

  4.3

  2.0

  3.6

  4.4

  7.9

  Morgannwg

  2.4

  4.8

  1.5

  3.0

  3.9

  7.8

  North Wales

  3.0

  4.6

  1.7

  2.6

  4.7

  7.2

  Wales

  12.0

  4.1

  12.6

  4.3

  24.6

  8.4

  1 Includes other grades of staff involved in clinical work

  2 Whole-time equivalents

  3 Due to small overall numbers figures are shown per 1,000,000 population

  277
  Mr. Opik
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to review the current provision of care for sufferers from arthritic conditions; and if he will make a statement. [61917]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  The provision for the care of those suffering from arthritic conditions is the responsibility of health authorities whose responsibility it is to assess the needs of their local population and provide appropriate services to meet them while taking account of their resources, priorities and other pressures.

  Assembly Reporting
  Ms Lawrence
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what proposals he has for the record of the National Assembly for Wales. [62797]

  Mr. Michael
  I will publish tomorrow a consultation paper which sets out our proposals on the timing of the production of the report, which will be called "The Daily Journal"; its translation into and from the Welsh language; the method of publication; standards and archiving. In line with our policy of inclusivity I want to ensure that the record reaches as wide an audience as possible and we want to learn of people's thoughts on how best to make the Record available to the people of Wales.

  Copies of the Paper will be placed in the Library as soon as possible.

  Water Disconnections
  Mr. Ruane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the levels of disconnections by Welsh Water; and if he will encourage those water companies that do not have them to establish charitable or hardship funds. [62250]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  Since the privatisation of the water industry in 1989, there has been a general decline in the number of water supply disconnections made by Dwr Cymru Welsh Water. In 1991–92 the number of household disconnections was 2,938 as compared to 160 in 1997–98.

  The issue of disconnection formed part of the Government's recent review of the water charging system in England and Wales which proposed the prohibition of the disconnection of household water supplies for non-payment of charges. The Government have decided to proceed with this proposal. Clause 1 of the Water Industry Bill, which will have its Second Reading in the House on Monday 7 December, provides for this prohibition through an amendment to section 61 of the Water Industry Act 1991.

  The development of charitable trusts by water companies is strongly supported by the Government as they provide invaluable support to customers in genuine need. The Government will continue to encourage action by companies to assist those customers who experience difficulties in paying their charges, not only through charitable trusts, but also through the design of tariffs and through helping customers reduce their bills and economise on water use.

  Housing Associations
  Mr. Ruane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales which housing associations in Wales(a) do and (b) do not participate in mutual aid development on their estates. [62274]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  Mutual aid development refers to the activities known as "housing plus" or sustaining communities. The Welsh Office sets "Regulatory Requirements", which are the standards that housing associations must work to. They state:"Associations should help to safeguard their tenants' quality of life by providing support to communities which help protect the interests of existing neighbours or tenants or contribute to the prevention or reversal of social decline".

  Our experience at audit of housing associations is all are engaged in a range of such projects, some more extensively than others. We have encouraged associations to increase this work in the future as part of the Government's agenda to tackle social exclusion.

  Tai Cymru issued in September 1998 a report on "Sustainable communities for the future" which gave many examples of good practice in this area and made recommendations for future action.

  Mr. Ruane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many housing association development workers are employed by each housing association in Wales. [62275]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  This information is not held centrally but we believe all associations employ development workers. Some Associations employ specific officers to carry out this work while others use generic staff who provide this function alongside their housing management role. We believe both approaches can be equally effective.

AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FOOD

  Methyl Bromide
  Mr. Flight
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans Her Majesty's Government have(a) to ban the use of methyl bromide as a chemical agent for the purposes of sterilising soil and grain stores and (b) to ensure that a replacement product is available. [61180]

  Mr. Rooker
  The Government are bound by the timetable laid down in the Montreal Protocol to reduce or phase-out substances such as methyl bromide which deplete the ozone layer. The Protocol was last amended in September 1997 when it was agreed, for developed countries, to cut production and use of methyl bromide by 50 per cent. by 2001, 70 per cent. by 2003 and phase out by 2005. The Protocol exempts quarantine and preshipment treatments. All member states of the European Union are signatories to the Protocol, which is currently implemented through Council Regulation (EC) 3093/94.

  The European Commission has proposed a draft Regulation imposing a more stringent timetable to cut production and phase-out methyl bromide which is under discussion.
  279
  Impact Studies have been commissioned by MAFF and DETR on the effect of phase-out in the horticultural, food commodity and structures sectors. Methyl Bromide is an efficient fumigant and for some purposes such as soil sterilisation and the disinfestation of flour mills, there are no ready, single alternatives. A LINK research project to consider alternatives for the horticulture sector commences in April next year. Two further LINK projects covering commodities and structural fumigation are currently under consideration.

  Policy responsibility for negotiations and implementation of the Protocol within the UK rests with my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions. Further information about the impact of phase out of methyl bromide on the horticulture industry can be found in the ADAS reports "A Review of Methyl Bromide Use in Horticulture (1996)" and "Withdrawal of Methyl Bromide—summary of principle cost implications for UK horticulture (1998)", both of which were commissioned by my Department. (Copies of both reports are available from ADAS or MAFF—Horticulture and Potatoes Division.)

  Pet Quarantine
  Ms Perham
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to introduce a parallel system for pet quarantine to cover North America. [60863]

  Mr. Rooker
  Pet Animals arriving from North America are already subject to the same regime as animals arriving from anywhere else outside the British Isles. The Advisory Group on Quarantine has recommended that quarantine should be replaced for cats and dogs leaving the UK and returning after visits to the European Union and European Economic area countries, and rabies-free islands in the rest of the world; quarantine would also be replaced for cats and dogs entering the UK from such countries. Quarantine would be retained for cats and dogs coming into the UK from other countries. The Government will propose a specific way forward on the Advisory Group's recommendations after the public consultation on the Group's report ends on 31 December 1998.

  The Advisory Group recommended that further consideration be given to the risks arising from allowing cats and dogs from North America into Great Britain without undergoing quarantine. This study is underway.

  BSE
  Mr. Pickthall
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the progress of the attack rate experiment examining the dose of BSE-infected cattle brain necessary to transmit BSE orally between cattle; and what evidence the experiments have produced on the relationship between the incubation period and the size of the dose. [61558]

  Mr. Rooker
  In the so called attack-rate experiment, to determine the minimum amount of BSE-infected cattle brain required to infect cattle by the oral route and the effect dose size may have on the incubation time, groups of 10 cattle were deliberately infected at four months of age by feeding them with either 300, 100, 10 or 1 gram 280
  of BSE infected brain tissue. The cattle were then observed for the development of disease and killed when judged to be positive by clinical signs. Diagnosis of BSE was confirmed by examination of the brain post-mortem.

  The experiment has now been running for 7 years and transmission of BSE has been accomplished with all four different doses of brain. All 10 animals in each group dosed with 300 or 100 grams of brain have been positively diagnosed with incubation periods ranging from 32–42 months and 32–60 months respectively. Seven of the 10 animals in each group dosed with 10 or 1 gram have been positively diagnosed with incubation periods ranging from 44–71 months and 45–71 months respectively. One animal died early from other causes not related to BSE in the group that received 10 grams of brain. All the remaining animals from the groups that received 10 or 1 gram of brain are now showing early clinical signs consistent with BSE.

  The results indicate that cattle can be infected by the oral route down to a level of 1 gram of BSE infected cattle brain and that incubation period appears to be prolonged at lower doses.

  The experiment has since been extended and groups of cattle have now been challenged with either one, one tenth, one hundredth or one thousandth of a gram of the same infected cattle brain used previously. The experiment has been running for 11 months and all animals are still clinically normal. It is hoped that this phase of the experiment will define the minimum dose of brain required to infect cattle and provide further information relating to the effect on incubation period relative to the infecting dose.

  Deer Management
  Mr. Martyn Jones
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will list the agenda items for discussion at the meeting between the Director General of the Forestry Commission and the Chair of the Commissioners of the Forestry Commission, and the Quantock Staghounds on 4 December; and if he will make a statement. [62033]

  Mr. Morley
  The Chairman and the Director General of the Forestry Commission are meeting representatives of the Quantock Staghounds to hear their views on issues relating to deer management. There is no formal agenda, but the meeting will take account of the Commission's decision not to renew the Staghounds' licence to hunt over Commission land, and also the recent Harris report on stag hunting.

  Scallops
  Mr. Derek Twigg
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans have been made to introduce measures to secure scallop stock conservation. [62675]

  Mr. Morley
  Following issue of a consultative paper in June this year and careful consideration of the responses, it has been decided to proceed with the introduction of specific licensing arrangements for over 10 metre vessels fishing for scallops using mechanical dredging gear.

  Permission to fish for scallops with mechanical dredging gear will be granted where vessel owners can demonstrate that they currently hold licences with a history of having caught a minimum of 1 tonne of scallops

  281
  by this method in any calendar year during the period 1 January 1994 to 31 May 1998. The users of mechanical dredging gear will be required to complete a logbook for all fishing trips during which scallops are caught. Where licences are aggregated, the permission to fish for scallops with mechanical dredging gear will only be given if all the donor licences carried that permission.

  These arrangements are planned to take effect from 1 April 1999 and will be reviewed after 2 years in the light of experience. The review will take account also of progress towards the development of more precisely targeted conservation measures.

  A number of respondents to the consultation exercise proposed that scallop licensing should be introduced for vessels of 10 metres and under. This will be considered as part of broader management arrangements for these vessels. However, I should make it clear that if scallop licensing were to be introduced in this context, the reference period for determining eligibility would also be 1 January 1994 to 31 May 1998.

  Fisheries Departments will be writing to all owners of over 10 metre vessels setting out the criteria for qualification for a licence and inviting applications. The letter will also deal with the arrangements for considering applications from those who do not meet the qualifying criteria but who have made a financial commitment to invest in a scallop vessel, gear or licences for aggregation onto a scallop vessel prior to 31 May 1998.

HOUSE OF COMMONS

  Millennium Bug
  Ms Oona King
  To ask the President of the Council if she will make a statement on the progress being made by central Government departments and agencies and the wider public sector in tackling the millennium bug. [62174]

  Mrs. Beckett
  I refer my hon. Friend to the statement I made yesterday in the House on 2 December 1998,Official Report, columns 902–16. I have also place copies of the latest quarterly returns from Departments, agencies and key organisations from the wider public sector in the Library and on the Internet (http://www.open.gov.uldyear2000).

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

  Tanning Shop Franchises
  Mr. Campbell-Savours
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many letters he has received in respect of the treatment by the(a) National Westminster Bank and (b) Lombard Banking of the Tanning Shop franchise customers. [61306]

  Mrs. Roche
  No letters have been received by this Department in respect of the treatment by either the National Westminster Bank or Lombard Banking of the Tanning Shop franchise customers although the former Minister for Competition and Consumer Affairs. my hon. Friend the Member for Edinburgh, South (Mr. Griffiths) received a letter from my hon. Friend on 12 December about The Tanning Shop Ltd.

  Manufacturing Competitiveness
  Mr. Brady
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on manufacturing competitiveness. [61309]

  Mr. Mandelson
  We recognise the difficulty that the downturn in the world economy is causing certain sections of our manufacturing industry and exporters. However, not all is doom and gloom. We believe that the tough and decisive action this Government have taken is creating the conditions for stability necessary to build Britain's long-term prosperity. And as the Government's Competitiveness White Paper will show, we are taking measures to stimulate greater enterprise, innovation and exploitation of knowledge, all of which will underpin Britain's competitiveness into the new Millennium.

  Science (Government Spending)
  Mr. Andy King
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what has been the average annual increase in total Government spending on science over the last 20 years. [61310]

  Mr. Battle
  Information before 1986–87 is not available in the terms requested. The average real terms annual change in total Government spending on Science Engineering and Technology over the 12-year period 1986–87 to 1997–98 was a decrease of £128 million at 1997–98 prices. This excludes National Health Service SET expenditure for which information has been available only since 1995–96.

  Electronic Commerce
  Ms Southworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress is being made in assisting small businesses to increase their use of electronic communications. [61311]

  Mrs. Roche
  Electronic Communication—in particular e-commerce over the Internet—allows every small business in the UK to compete on the world stage. The Government's aim is to make the UK the best environment in the world for e-commerce by 2002. And we need to help small businesses grasp the opportunities this opens up. International benchmarking studies commissioned by the department show that only 11 per cent. of UK small businesses regularly use external electronic networking technologies such as the Internet. The White Paper on competitiveness which we will be publishing shortly will set out our strategy to increase this number significantly.

  Fiona Mactaggart
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on how he intends to promote successful electronic commerce. [61324]

  Mrs. Roche
  The Government's strategy for electronic commerce will he set out in the White Paper on Competitiveness which we will be publishing shortly. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State announced to the House on 25 November 1998,Official Report, column 217, the Prime Minister will be appointing a Digital Envoy to drive this strategy forward.

  Scientific Research
  Mr. Bayley
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to ensure that British scientific research contributes to economic prosperity. [61312]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The development and commercial exploitation of scientific research is fundamental to a prosperous knowledge-driven economy.

  Important steps have already been taken such as:

  £.1.4 billion additional funding for science;

  the launch earlier this year of University challenge to help universities turn good research into good business;

  measures to promote collaborative partnerships such as LINK;

  the creation, of a £25 million Science Enterprise Challenge announced in my right hon. Friend's the Chancellors Pre-Budget Statement.

  My forthcoming Competitiveness White Paper will address this important issue and build on these measures.

  Supermarket Retailing
  Mr. Breed
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects to receive the Office of Fair Trading report into supermarket retailing. [61314]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The decision to undertake a study of supermarket profitability was taken independently by the Director General of Fair Trading. It is a matter for him how and when he makes his findings public. I understand that he hopes to complete preliminary investigations early in the new year.

  Textile Industry
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to support the United Kingdom's textile industry. [61315]

  Mr. Battle
  DTI provides a wide range of support to the UK's textiles, clothing and footwear industries. Currently the Department is supporting 22 projects aimed specifically at raising the profile of the sector and improving its competitiveness.

  Foreign-owned Industries
  Mr. Pickthall
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what measures he is taking to ensure that DTI grants helping foreign-owned industries to move into the north-west do not disadvantage existing indigenous industries. [61316]

  Mrs. Roche
  Displacements are a primary factor when considering grants for mobile investments. There is no national benefit in supporting a project which simply knocks out equivalent employment in competing businesses.

  Policy Decisions
  Dr. Gibson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans his Department has for the solicitation of scientific advice in order to facilitate policy decision making. [61317]
  284
  Mr. Battle
  DTI has in place a number of procedures and mechanisms to ensure that the appropriate scientific advice is sought and used to inform policy making in line with the Guidelines on "The Use of Scientific Advice in Policy Making". These mechanisms include, for example, the use of in-house experts, independent advisory committees and expert research or technical advice. The Office of Science and Technology carried out a review of how Departments were implementing the Guidelines, and the Chief Scientific Adviser published a report last July which showed that good progress was being made. A further review will be undertaken next year.

  Manchester United
  Mr. Skinner
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects to receive the decision of the Monopolies Commission regarding the sale of Manchester United football club; and if he will make a statement. [61319]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The Monopolies and Mergers Commission is due to deliver its report on BSkyB's proposed acquisition of Manchester United to me by 12 March 1999.

  Small and Medium Enterprises
  Mr. Gareth Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he has taken to establish networks of research-oriented small and medium enterprises. [61320]

  Mrs. Roche
  From the day it was elected, this Government have striven to encourage better networking by research-oriented SMEs. Very often, such firms possess real talent and innovative ideas; it is our aim to encourage them to learn from each other, and from a wider canvas of expertise, how best to bring their research to market.

  I recognise and welcome the industrial forums that have been established in Wales and commend them to other parts of the country.

  One of the earliest actions of this Government, following the 1997 election, was to announce the establishment of the first four Faraday Partnerships in the UK.

  Each Faraday Partnership is a collaborative network between one or more universities, one or more independent research and technology organisations and a group of up to 30 firms, focusing especially on small and medium-sized firms.

  At regional and local level, numerous semi-formal groupings exist, usually facilitated by Government Office, Business Links or universities and research organisations. Many such groups have been established as a result of the work of the team of 13 regional industrial secondees working in the DTI's Innovation Unit, who in turn collaborate with local providers to identify suitable topics for networking.

  Particular emphasis has been given to encouraging smaller firms to understand the outcomes of the Foresight process. Many high-technology small firms are nowadays key to Britain's industrial capability—in topics such as software and aspects of biotechnology. Keeping these

  285
  firms aware of the directions that science and technology are taking in our universities is a fundamental role of networks.

  Mrs. Ann Winterton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on his Department's work in supporting small and medium enterprises. [61325]

  Mrs. Roche
  Small and medium-sized businesses are crucial to a successful enterprise economy and the Government are firmly committed to stimulating the creation, competitiveness and growth of new and smaller businesses.

  The key principles underlying the Government's approach include fostering an enterprise culture that encourages innovators and risk takers; providing and maintaining a supportive economic environment; identifying and removing barriers to growth; and providing high quality business support for firms at all stages of their development. The Government also work within the European Union to help to further these aims throughout Europe.

  Mr. Dismore
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on support for small businesses in London. [61303]

  Mrs. Roche
  A full range of support is available to SMEs in London through TECs, Business Links, Chambers of Commerce, Enterprise Agencies and others. The structure of business support in London is, however, being reviewed to ensure that it is fully effective in meeting the needs of companies.

  Government Chemist
  Ms Stuart
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the performance of the Government Chemist in meeting his statutory responsibility. [61321]

  Mr. Battle
  Good chemical analysis makes a considerable contribution to our quality of life and our industrial competitiveness. I am satisfied that the Government Chemist is discharging his role as statutory function in a satisfactorily manner. This view is endorsed by the Royal Society of Chemistry and other Government Departments for which the Government Chemist provides analysis and advice.

  I have just received the Government Chemist's second annual report and copies will be placed in the Library.

  Energy Supply
  Mr. Paul Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and-Industry what plans he has for maintaining diversity of long-term energy supply in the United Kingdom. [61322]

  Mr. Battle
  We set out the Government's plans in the White Paper, Conclusions of the Review of Energy Sources for Power Generation and Government Response to fourth and fifth Reports of the Trade and Industry Committee (Cm 4071), published on 8 October 1998.

  Minimum Wage
  Mr. Corbyn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received concerning the youth rate of the national minimum wage; and if he will make a statement. [61323]

  Mr. Ian McCartney
  The Government have received a number of representations about the national minimum wage youth rate.

  The setting of a different rate for young people reflects the importance we attach to their training, development and education and to helping them to secure jobs. International research shows that where minimum wages have an adverse impact, if falls disproportionately on young people. That is why most countries which have minimum wage legislation have exemptions and lower rates for young people.

  Mr. Wilkinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer concerning the implications for the competitiveness of British industry of the minimum wage. [61022]

  Mr. Ian McCartney
  The competitiveness of British industry is regularly discussed during meetings Ministers have with the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

  The national minimum wage will help improve relationships at the workplace and produce improvements in work force commitment, morale, and performance. It should contribute to raising industry's competitiveness by reductions in staff turnover and absenteeism. This should result in improved productivity, which will benefit individual companies and the economy as a whole.

  Working Time Directive
  Mr. Steen
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many small businesses he estimates will face increased overheads as a result of the Working Time directive. [61326]

  Mr. Ian McCartney
  There was no specific assessment of the increased overheads faced by small businesses, but we do not think small businesses will be disproportionately affected because of their size. An assessment for the whole of British industry was made, a copy of which is held in the Library.

  The Government have endeavoured to minimise costs and burdens on business in line with proper implementation of the Directive. These measures will provide workers with proper rest and help combat stress and illness amongst workers. With the CBI estimating £25 billion lost in 1996 due to absenteeism they also make good business sense.

  Millennium Dome
  Mr. Ian Bruce
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what measures he has put in place to ensure that Ministers dealing with sponsorship for the millennium dome do not deal with competition issues affecting those sponsors. [61331]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The New Millennium Experience Company is responsible for procuring and negotiating sponsorship for the Millennium Experience project.
  287
  Ms Ward
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the level of sponsorship for exhibits within the millennium dome. [61332]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The £120 million confirmed sponsorship raised by the New Millennium Experience Company so far covers 8 exhibit zones within the Dome, some associated National Programme strands, and Baby Dome. The exhibit zones are Communicate (BT); Body (Boots The Chemist); Work (Manpower); National Identity (Marks and Spencer); Learn (Tesco); Global (BAA and British Airways); Mind (British Aerospace and GEC); and Transaction (Corporation of London subject to matching funding by City Institutions). The National Programme strands are Future Talk (BT); Our Town Story (McDonald's); National Skills Festival 2000 (Manpower); Children's Promise/Voices of Promise (Marks and Spencer); and Tesco Schoolnet 2000. Baby Dome is being sponsored by Sky. Camelot, the official ticket distributor, is also an official partner sponsor.

  Mrs. Laing
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what estimate he has made of the numbers expected to visit the millennium dome in its first year. [61333]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC) is charged by the Government and the Millennium Commission with developing the Millennium Experience project and operating it for one year. The NMEC estimate that 12 million people will visit the Millennium Experience during its one year of operation.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement about corporate sponsorship for the millennium dome. [61334]

  Mr. Mandelson
  I refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Wirral, South, (Mr. Chapman) on 3 December 1998,Official Report, columns 1038–39.

  Mr. Grieve
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the number of zones planned for the millennium dome. [61336]

  Mr. Mandelson
  There will be 14 zones within the Millennium Dome.

  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) if he will publish the amounts budgeted to be spent on design and content within each of the zones in the Greenwich Millennium Exhibition; [61979]

  (2) if he will publish the budgets for each of the zones in the Greenwich Millennium Exhibition. [61981]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answers 1 December 1998]: I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Great Grimsby (Mr. Mitchell) on 27 July 1998, Official Report, columns 82–83.

  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had with the BBC over broadcasting rights to the Millennium Exhibition in Greenwich. [61982]
  288
  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: The New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC) is in discussion with a number of broadcasters, including the BBC, over broadcasting rights to the Millennium Experience at Greenwich.

  Mrs. Lait
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has held with representatives of the Amalgamated Engineers and Electrical Union about transportation to the Millennium Dome. [61335]

  Mr. Mandelson
  Transport issues are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister and my hon. Friend the Minister for Transport in London.

  Mr. McWalter
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if there will be a celebration of Britain's contributions to political theory during the last 1000 years in the Millennium Dome. [61665]

  Mr. Mandelson
  I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave him on 5 November 1998,Official Report, column 623.

  Mr. Mitchell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what provision will be made for the sale of traditional British food at the Millennium Experience. [61625]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The New Millennium Experience Company's policy is to provide as wide a range of catering services as possible to meet the varied needs of visitors to the Dome.

  Mr. Prior
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what estimate he has made of the average daily number of visitors to the Millennium Dome. [61330]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The New Millennium Experience Company aims to attract an average daily number of 33,000 visitors.

  Mr. Wyatt
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many expressions of interest he has received for the use of the Millennium Dome after 1 January 2001; and when he will make a decision on a short list of potential users. [61879]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: Since 1 December 1997 when I invited expressions of interest in the Dome's future use, I have received 7 proposals. A working group set up by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister is currently looking at the best mechanism for encouraging and assessing expressions of interest, including the timetable and the criteria against which bids would be judged. No firm decisions have been made yet but it is likely that a formal competition will begin in the New Year.

  Mergers
  Miss McIntosh
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on his policy on mergers. [61302]

  Mr. Mandelson
  I shall refer cases to the Monopolies and Mergers Commission primarily on competition grounds. However, I shall continue to consider each case on its merits, in order to safeguard competition and the interests of the consumer.

  Ministerial Visits
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on what date and for what reasons his planned trip to Brazil in November was cancelled. [61519]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: A decision to postpone my planned visit to Brazil and Argentina was taken as soon as it became clear—following the announcement by my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House regarding Prorogation on Thursday 12 November—that Trade and Industry Oral Questions would take place on 3 December.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what plans he has to carry out his planned visit to Brazil; [61526]

  (2) if he will list his planned overseas visits. [61522]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: I have not yet finalised my overseas visits programme for next year.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list his planned itinerary for his cancelled trip to Brazil. [61527]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: The itinerary for this visit had not yet been finalised. It would have consisted of calls on representatives of the Brazilian Government, business and the media.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) if he will list the expenses incurred during his trip to Brazil in 1998: [61528]

  (2) if he will list the expenses incurred by the then Minister without Portfolio on his visit to Brazil; [61524]

  (3) if he will publish the itinerary of the visit by the then Minister without Portfolio to Brazil in June; [61518]

  (4) what issues the then Minister without Portfolio discussed with the British Council in Rio de Janeiro during his visit; [61521]

  (5) if he will list the individuals met by the then Minister without Portfolio during his ministerial trip to Brazil. [61523]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Ruislip-Northwood (Mr. Wilkinson) on 31 July 1998, Official Report, column 779.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the itineraries for his overseas visits in the current year. [61513]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: I have no current plans to undertake any further official overseas visits this year.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the(a) itineraries for and (b) expenses incurred in his visits to the United States. [61529]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: My visit to the United States from 10 September to 15 September involved meetings in New York, San
  290
  Francisco, Silicon Valley and San Diego with leading edge technology and knowledge driven businesses, venture capitalists and academics.

  On the expenses incurred, I refer to the reply I gave in writing to the hon. Member for Spelthorne (Mr. Wilshire), my letter dated 25 November, a copy of which has been placed in the Library.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list his expenses on overseas trips. [61520]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave in writing to the hon. Member for Spelthorne (Mr. Wilshire), my letter dated 25 November, a copy of which has been placed in the Library.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the individuals he met during his visit to the United States. [61525]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: During my visit, I met representatives of leading edge technology businesses, venture capitalists and academics.

  Ministerial Meetings
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many meetings he has had with(a) McDonald's and (b) Manpower since becoming Secretary of State; and if civil servants were present. [61986]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: I have had no meetings with McDonald's or Manpower since my appointment as Secretary of State.

  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry who was present and what was discussed at his meeting with British Telecom on 30 October. [62003]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: The meeting with British Telecom was attended by the Chief Executive, Sir Peter Bonfield, and two others from BT, as well as officials from my Department. Strategic issues concerning the company and its future business were discussed.

  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what aspects of the Millennium Dome he discussed with Mr. S. P. Hinduja and Mr. G. P. Hinduja at his meeting on 6 October. [62203]

  Mr. Mandelson
  I met with S. P. Hinduja and G. P. Hinduja at my offices to discuss Indo-British relations. The Millennium Dome was not on the agenda, but was referred to in passing at the end of the meeting. There was no substantive discussion.

  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) how many meetings he has had with the directors or employees of Sangam Ltd. since he became the Minister responsible for the Millennium Experience; where they were held; what was the subject matter; and if civil servants were present; [62000]

  (2) how many informal meetings at which Government business was discussed he has had with the directors or employees of Sangam Ltd. since 2 May 1997; and what was the subject matter; [62001]
  291
  (3) how many meetings he has had with the directors or employees of Sangam Limited since he became Secretary of State; where they were held; what was the subject matter; and if civil servants were present; [61999]

  (4) on what dates he has had meetings with (a) Srichand P. Hinduja, Chairman and (b) Gopichand P. Hinduja, President of the Hinduja Group of Companies since 2 May 1997; what was the location of the meetings and the subject matter discussed; and if officials were present. [61977]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer I December 1998]: I refer the hon. Member to the replies I gave him today in response to questions Numbers 61976 and 62203.

  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many informal meetings he has had since 2 May 1997 at which Government business was discussed with(a) Srichand P. Hinduja, Chairman and (b) Gopichand P. Hinduja, President of the Hinduja Group of Companies. [61976]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: As Minister without Portfolio, I met the Hindujas on a number of occasions, sometimes formally and otherwise at social events. Since becoming Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, I have had one meeting with the Hindujas on 6 October.

  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many informal meetings at which Government business was discussed he has had with British Airways. [61993]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: In my capacity as Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, I have had no meetings with British Airways. In my capacity as shareholder of the New Millennium Experience Company, I meet Bob Ayling, the Chief Executive of BA, from time to time in his capacity as Chairman of NMEC.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the meetings he has held with the British Council relating to the promotion of trade and industry abroad. [61514]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: Since my appointment as Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, I have opened a new British Council English language training centre in Johannesburg on 15 September and attended the Pontignano conference, hosted by the British Council, in Italy on 19 September.

  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) who was present and what was discussed at his meeting with British Aerospace on 26 October; [61983]

  (2) who was present and what was discussed at his meeting with British Aerospace on 7 September; [61998]

  (3) how many informal meetings at which Government business was discussed he has had with British Aerospace. [61994]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: Each of these meetings with British Aerospace was attended by at least one director of British Aerospace and at least one official from my Department. On each occasion strategic issues affecting the future business of British Aerospace were discussed. I apologise to the hon.
  292
  Member for the fact that my answer to him of 19 November 1998, Official Report, columns 882–83, was incomplete, in that I also met British Aerospace on 3 September for a similar purpose. Beyond this, I have held no informal meetings with British aerospace since I was appointed Secretary of State for Trade and Industry.

  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) who was present and what was discussed at his meeting with British Aerospace on 21 October; [62004]

  (2) who was present and what was discussed at his meeting with British Aerospace on 14 November. [62005]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 2 December 1998]: I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him today in response to his questions 61983, 61998 and 61994.

  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many meetings he has had with the Chairman of the New Millennium Experience Company since 30 July; what was discussed; and if officials were present. [61984]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: Since 30 July, I have met the Chairman of the New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC) 4 times at the Millennium Experience Co-ordinating Group at which progress of the Millennium Experience project was discussed. I also met the Chairman at a working lunch at my office with other members of the New Millennium Experience Company Board and officials.

  Ministerial Responsibilities
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry from which civil servants he has sought advice in respect of potential conflicts of interest arising from his position as Secretary of State for Trade and Industry and as the sponsoring Minister of the New Millennium Experience Company; and what advice he received. [61997]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: I refer the hon. Gentleman to the statement I issued on 6 August, copies of which were placed in the Library.

  Combined Heat and Power
  Mr. Barry Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is yet in a position to make his decision on the proposal to construct a combined heat and power generating station adjacent to the Shotton paper mill in Flintshire. [62874]

  Mr. Battle
  I have today granted consent under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989 to Shotton Combined Heat and Power Ltd.'s application for my consent to construct a 215 MW combined heat and power generating station adjacent to the Shotton paper mill in Flintshire.

  I have placed a copy of the decision letter in the Library.

  Ministerial E-mail Address
  Mr. Brake
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is his e-mail address. [62554]

  Mr. Mandelson
  My e-mail address is "tlo.mandelson@tlo.dti.gov.uk".

  Ford Motor Company
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the total value of grants paid by his Department to the Ford Motor Company since 1 May 1997. [61989]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: Ford Motor Company have not received any Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) payments from this Department since 1 May 1997. However Jaguar Cars Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Ford, has received two RSA payments totalling £7 million during the same period.

  Electricity Industry
  Dr. Cable
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what direct representations he has made to the French Government calling for the speeding up of reciprocal changes to the French electricity market. [62220]

  Mr. Battle
  My officials have made representations to their French counterparts about the imbalance in electricity trade between the UK and France on two occasions, and we will continue to raise this issue with the French Government at both Ministerial and official level.

  Dr. Cable
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans his Department has to ensure two-way trade on the Anglo-French electricity interconnector. [62192]

  Mr. Battle
  The steps which the Government are considering taking in order to ensure fair trade in electricity with Europe were set out in the White Paper on the Conclusions of The Review of Energy Source for Power Generation (Cm 4071). These include reviewing interconnector trading in the context of the reform of wholesale trading arrangements and the use of the reciprocity provision in the electricity liberalisation directive. There should, however, be increasing opportunities for trade in electricity following implementation of the directive in February 1999.

  Late Payment of Interest
  Yvette Cooper
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the response by business to legislation on the late payment of interest. [61307]

  Mrs. Roche
  Late payment has a devastating impact on Britain's small businesses. This Government are determined to improve the UK's payment culture to ensure that small businesses can thrive and prosper.

  The Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 commenced on 1 November 1998 and provides small suppliers with a statutory right to claim interest on late paid bills and transfers the cost of late payment from the supplier to the late payer.

  It is too early to draw conclusions about the impact legislation has had. However, evidence from other European Countries who have introduced legislation
  294
  shows that effective legislation can tackle late payment, particularly when supported by other measures.

  British Libya Interest Group
  Mr. Dalyell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on his response to the latest representations of the British Libya Interest Group. [61462]

  Mr. Wilson
  The position of Her Majesty's Government is well known. Following recent representations from the British Libyan Business Group (BLBG), my officials will be meeting with their Chairman, Mr. Kevin Boyle, and others to listen to their concerns on 10 December 1998.

  Agriculture (Producer Rights)
  Mr. Harvey
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has to require the Office of Fair Trading to review producer-wholesaler trading and the rights of producers with regards to the agricultural industry. [61937]

  Dr. Howells
  It is the responsibility of the Director General of Fair Trading to monitor markets and investigate allegations of anti-competitive behaviour.

  He is currently carrying out an inquiry into the profitability of the major supermarkets in the grocery sector. The scope of this inquiry is a matter for him.

  End of Life Vehicles (European Directive)
  Helen Jackson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) when he will meet his European counterparts to discuss the European Directive on End of Life Vehicles; [61061]

  (2) if he will ensure that special steel is given an exemption from the European Directive on the lead content of end of life vehicles. [61060]

  Dr. Howells
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: My right hon. Friend the Minister for the Environment will be attending the Environment Council on 21 December, and the Government understand that the Austrian Presidency is likely to put the draft End of Life Vehicles Directive on the agenda.

  World Trade Organisation
  Mrs. Mahon
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry in what format reports from representatives of Her Majesty's Government who are members of the United Kingdom delegation to the World Trade Organisation are lodged. [61166]

  Mr. Wilson
  They take the form of letters, telegrams or telephone conversations to Government Departments with an interest in the particular issue.
  295
  Mrs. Mahon
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if the CVs of the representatives of Her Majesty's Government who are members of the United Kingdom delegation to the World Trade Organisation in Geneva are made public. [61163]

  Mr. Wilson
  Biographies of diplomatic staff appear in "The Diplomatic Service List" published annually by The Stationery Office. There are no rules on the provision of CVs to the public, this would be a matter for the individuals concerned.

  Mrs. Mahon
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what formal liaison takes place between the representatives of Her Majesty's Government on the United Kingdom delegations to(a) the World Trade Organisation in Geneva and (b) the European Union. [61164]

  Mr. Wilson
  Representatives in the two delegations liaise closely with each other and with Government Departments. When appropriate, members of the United Kingdom Delegation to the World Trade Organisation may attend formal European Union meetings.

  Telephone Sales
  Mr. Laurence Robertson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what guidelines exist regarding(a) telephone sales calls and (b) inducing residents to call high-cost telephone numbers in order to
  296
  claim prizes offered through unsolicited mail (i) in the United Kingdom and (ii) from abroad; and if he will make a statement. [61503]

  Dr. Howells
  [holding answer 30 November 1998]: The information requested is:
  a (i) Under the Telecommunications Act 1984, UK companies using telephone marketing are subject to a class licence which contains measures aimed at limiting potential nuisance. In addition, the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) is a scheme to help residential customers reduce the number of telesales calls they receive. Residential customers can register for inclusion in a database against which companies selling via the telephone can voluntarily "clean" their mailing lists.
  However, the Government are considering introducing an "opt-out" scheme for individual subscribers under the EC Telecoms Data Protection Directive as soon as is practicable in 1999. This scheme will be mandatory for companies selling by telephone.
  a (ii) The EC Directive also applies to other Members States. Complaints about unsolicited telephone sales calls from abroad are extremely rare.
  b (i and ii) Whether provided from the UK or abroad, mailshots encouraging residents to call high-cost lines to claim prizes are part of the Premium Rate Services (PRS) industry and are regulated by the Independent Committee for the Supervision of Standards of Telephone Information Services (ICSTIS) through a Code of Practice which covers the promotional material for and the duration of competitions and games with prizes. ICSTIS can fine service providers who breach the code and can recommend that network operators bar access to companies' services which breach the Code.
  Members of the public can raise concerns about particular PRS services by telephoning ICSTIS' free complaints line on 0800 500212.

  Central America
  Central America
  Council of Europe and WEU Assemblies: New Appointment
  Council of Europe and WEU Assemblies: New Appointment
  Police Grant
  Police Grant
  Boards of Visitors: National Advisory Council Annual Report
  Boards of Visitors: National Advisory Council Annual Report
  Life Sentence Prisoners
  Life Sentence Prisoners
  Motorists: Blood/Urine Samples
  Motorists: Blood/Urine Samples
  Wales: General Schools Budgets
  Wales: General Schools Budgets
  Charities Taxation Review
  Charities Taxation Review
  Eurostar Services to South West England
  Eurostar Services to South West England
  Genetically Modified Plant Varieties: Seed Listing Applications
  Genetically Modified Plant Varieties: Seed Listing Applications
  Hedgerow Regulations 1997
  Hedgerow Regulations 1997
  Motorway Service Stations
  Motorway Service Stations
  Fatal Injuries
  Fatal Injuries
  Driving Licence Penalty Points
  Driving Licence Penalty Points
  Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990: Review of Consent Provisions
  Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990: Review of Consent Provisions
  Mental Health Act 1983: Revised Code of Practice
  Mental Health Act 1983: Revised Code of Practice
  Human Reproductive Cloning
  Human Reproductive Cloning
  Road Traffic Accidents: Insurance Payments for Treatment Costs
  Road Traffic Accidents: Insurance Payments for Treatment Costs
  Personal Social Services: Capital Allocations
  Personal Social Services: Capital Allocations
  Old Palace Yard: Granite Setts
  Old Palace Yard: Granite Setts
  Iraq: Enforcement of Sanctions
  Iraq: Enforcement of Sanctions
  Assassinations
  Assassinations
  Burma
  Burma
  Iraq: Saddam Hussein and UNSCOM
  Iraq: Saddam Hussein and UNSCOM
  EU Common Foreign and Security Policy Working Groups
  EU Common Foreign and Security Policy Working Groups
  Iraq: Kuwaiti Prisoners of War
  Iraq: Kuwaiti Prisoners of War
  Human Rights Obligations: Compliance by Ministers and Civil Servants
  Human Rights Obligations: Compliance by Ministers and Civil Servants
  Israeli Prime Minister's Visit: Talks
  Israeli Prime Minister's Visit: Talks
  Food Standards Agency
  Food Standards Agency
  England: General Schools Budgets
  England: General Schools Budgets