Written Answers of 9 December 1998

CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT

  BBC Funding
  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport when he expects to announce who will chair the independent review panel considering BBC funding. [62949]

  Mr. Chris Smith
  [holding answer 8 December 1998]: I expect to announce the chairman and members of the licence fee review panel shortly.

  Tourism
  Mr. Gareth Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what action he intends to take to encourage visitors to the UK to visit parts of the country outside London. [62961]

  Janet Anderson
  The British Tourist Authority recently opened the new Britain Visitor Centre in London. The new Centre, which is a partnership between the BTA and the tourist boards of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, aims to encourage visitors to London to travel more widely throughout the UK. This year we are providing a further £1.5 million to the London Tourist Board to support its Focus London campaign, which promotes London as a gateway to the rest of Britain. Our new tourism strategy, which will be published early next year, will set out in detail our plans for spreading the benefits of tourism throughout the country and throughout society.

  UK Sports Institute
  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to copyright the name of the UK Sports Institute. [62700]

  Mr. Chris Smith
  [holding answer 7 December 1998]: I assume that the hon. Member has in mind registration of a trademark rather than copyright. Action is in hand through the United Kingdom Sports Council to register as a trademark the names 'UK Sports Institute', 'United Kingdom Sports Institute' and 'UKSI' with the Trademarks Registry. A hearing before the Trademarks Examiner was attended by the UK Sports Council's legal advisers on 24 November as a forerunner to the process of formalising the submission of evidence for registration in the form of a Statutory Declaration.

  A licence agreement has also been prepared between the Department, the UK Sports Council and Phoenix Sports Ltd. (the Sheffield bid team) for use of the trademark 'UK Sports Institute' and other similar marks during the period prior to registration of the trademark.

  Creative Industries
  Dr. Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many representatives there are on the Creative Industries Task Group and Film Policy Review who have a background in the technical side of their industry. [61425]

  Janet Anderson
  Industry members of the Creative Industries Task Force were invited to participate on the basis of their expertise and experience and do not represent particular industries or aspects of industry. However, Paul Smith has a technical background in fashion.

  Members of the Film Policy Review Action Committee were chosen for their knowledge and experience of the film industry as a whole. Several have direct experience of technical aspects of the industry.

DEFENCE

  Navy (Early Retirement)
  Mr. Viggers
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the numbers of(a) divorces and (b) applications for premature voluntary retirement of Royal Naval personnel were during each of the last 10 years. [62936]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  My Department does not hold statistics on divorces of service personnel.

  The number of applications for premature voluntary release (PVR) by members of the Royal Naval Service from 1988–89 to 1997–98 were:

  Financial year

  Applications

  1988–89

  3,788

  1989–90

  4,647

  1990–91

  3,470

  1991–92

  2,140

  1992–93

  1,667

  1993–94

  1,396

  1994–95

  1,691

  1995–96

  2,639

  1996–97

  2,086

  1997–98

  2,019

  Notes:

  1. Royal Naval Service includes Royal Marines and Queen Alexandra's Royal Naval Nursing Service.

  2. PVR applications are recorded against the date they were input to the computer database.

  Otterburn Range
  Mr. Beith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if munitions containing depleted uranium are authorised to be fired on the Otterburn range, Northumberland. [63034]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  Munitions containing depleted uranium have not been and are not fired on the ranges at Otterburn.

  Helicopter Crash (South China Sea)
  Mr. Key
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assistance was offered by(a) Singapore rescue helicopters and (b) the Malaysian Government, following

  191
  the crash of a British military helicopter in the South China Sea off the east coast of Malaysia; and if he will make a statement. [62079]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  [holding answer 8 December 1998]: A Lynx helicopter, operating from HMS Grafton, crashed during a bilateral exercise with the Singapore Navy on 23 September this year. Following the crash, a Singaporean naval vessel rescued the pilot after he had spent about an hour in the sea. Other Singaporean ships and aircraft continued to search for the second crew member until the decision was taken to call off the rescue.

  Malaysia was not involved in the exercise and was therefore not in a position to offer immediate help. Two Malaysian ships did, however, offer assistance later; but by then the wreck of the helicopter had been located and so it was not necessary to accept the offer.

  Gulf War Veterans
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to publish the interim epidemiological reports relating to Gulf War Syndrome sufferers. [62956]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  The MOD is funding two epidemiological studies into the health of UK Gulf veterans. One study, being conducted by a team from Manchester University led by Professor Nicola Cherry, aims to determine whether Gulf veterans are experiencing greater ill-health than Service personnel who did not take part in the conflict and to identify possible exposures and predisposing factors associated with any distinctive pattern of symptoms which may be found. It will also investigate whether there is an increased incidence of mortality or cancer amongst Gulf veterans. Initial results from this study are expected to emerge in the first part of next year.

  The other study, being conducted by a team from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine led by Dr. Patricia Doyle, will examine the reproductive health of Gulf veterans and the health of their children. Initial results from this study are not expected until the end of 1999.

  Initial results from a US-funded study by a team from Kings College, London, led by Professors Simon Wessely and Anthony David, are expected to become available at around the turn of the year.

  All three research teams are working on an independent basis and therefore the publication of their results is a matter for them and not for my Department.

  NATO
  Mr. Cohen
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the allegation that secrets of where NATO were prepared to strike during the recent crisis in Kosovo were passed to the Serbs; and what assessment he has made of the implications for UK forces. [62096]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  There have been recent reports of a possible breach of security involving Major Bunel, a French military officer working at NATO headquarters. This and any other alleged breaches of NATO or national security regulations are matters for the security authorities concerned. In the Bunel case, the French Minister of 192
  Defence has stated publicly that Major Bunel had not had access to detailed planning, and preparations for NATO military action had therefore not been compromised. This case had no direct implications for UK forces.

  Oman
  Mr. Cohen
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment his Department has made of the reports alleging corruption in the 1970s involving members of Her Majesty's Forces in Oman; and if he will make a statement. [62296]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  I believe that my hon. Friend is referring to allegations that appeared in a newspaper article and a book recently of corruption in the Special Air Services (SAS) Regiment during the Dhofar Campaign in the early 1970s. The events in question took place almost 25 years ago and official records on the matter are incomplete. However, I understand that the Regiment dealt with the matter at the time and that disciplinary action, where appropriate, was taken.

  Ministerial E-mail Address
  Mr. Brake
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is his e-mail address. [62565]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  An e-mail address at which Ministers in this Department may be contacted will be set up shortly.

ENVIRONMENT, TRANSPORT AND THE REGIONS

  Local Government Finance
  Mr. Barnes
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) if he will list the percentage changes in(a) standard spending assessments and (b) revenue support grants for (i) shire counties and (ii) shire districts between the settlement for 1998–99 and the proposals for 1999–2000, ranked and numbered in descending order; [63074]

  (2) if he will list for 1999–2000 the proposed (a) revenue support grants and (b) standard spending assessments for (i) district councils and (ii) shire counties as a sum per head of their populations, ranked and numbered in descending order. [63073]

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

  Mr. Cotter
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what the real terms percentage difference is between the SSAs for North Somerset Council for 1998–99 and 1999–2000. [63069]

  Ms Armstrong
  The real terms percentage difference between the SSAs for North Somerset Council for 1998–99 and 1999–2000 is 1.6 per cent. i.e. 4.1 per cent. deflated by the GDP deflator.

  Mr. Cotter
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what amount, per capita, is allotted in external support grants for 1998–99 and 1999–2000(a) as a national average and (b) for North Somerset Council. [63071]
  193
  Ms Armstrong
  The two main external support grants covering services provided by unitary authorities are redistributed national non-domestic rates (NNDR) and revenue support grant (RSG). The table shows the per capita amounts for 1998–99 for England and for North Somerset, and the provisional amounts for 1999–2000.

  £

  1998–99

  Provisional 1999–2000

  England

  North Somerset

  England

  North Somerset

  NNDR

  225/hd

  236/hd

  276/hd

  255/hd

  RSG

  397/hd

  240/hd

  403/hd

  234/hd

  Total

  652/hd

  475/hd

  680/hd

  489/hd

  Mr. Cotter
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what the real terms difference between the education spending in 1998–99 by North Somerset Council and the Education SSA for the same authority in 1999–2000 is, expressed as(a) cash and (b) a percentage. [63070]

  Ms Armstrong
  The 1999–2000 Education SSA (Expressed at 1998–99 prices) for North Somerset Council was £4.957 million (7.0 per cent.) less than the 1998–99 budgeted Net Revenue Expenditure. The Net Revenue Expenditure was £6.705 million (10.4 per cent.) more than the 1998–99 SSA. The actual SSAs and NRE used are shown.

  1998–99 SSA for Education: £64.601m

  1998–99 NRE1for Education: £71.306m

  1999–2000 SSA for Education (adjusted using the GDP deflator to 1998–99 prices): £66.349m.

  1 Includes an apportionment of Capital Expenditure charged to Revenue Account but excludes specific and special grants.

  Mr. Cotter
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what the 1999–2000 SSA for North Somerset Council would be if the real terms percentage increase were the same as the national average. [63068]

  Ms Armstrong
  Applying the national average real terms percentage increase to the 1998–99 SSA for North Somerset would give £133.853 million.

  Mr. Chaytor
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list for each local authority, the 1999–2000 standard spending assessment(a) per five to 10 year old pupil and (b)per 11 to 15 year old pupil. [62887]

  Ms Armstrong
  [holding answer 8 December 1998]: A table showing the Primary Education SSA per pupil aged 5 to 10 and the Secondary Education SSA per pupil aged 11 to 15 for each local education authority has been placed in the library.

  Driving Instructors
  Mr. Barnes
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps he takes to ensure that those qualifying as driving instructors will be equipped in most cases to meet the standards later operating in their check-tests; and if he will introduce an appeals system for those who fail their check-tests. [63072]
  194
  Ms Glenda Jackson
  The standards established when passing the qualifying examinations are the same as those needed subsequently to pass the periodic check-tests. Advice and assistance is available to instructors at any time from local supervising examiners. Also, the system of check-tests is operated in an educational rather than a punitive way. Following an unsatisfactory check-test, an examiner will offer to discuss performance, so the instructor can consider what action is needed, possibly involving re-training, before a further check-test takes place. We have no plans currently to introduce an appeals system to review the examiner's judgment where a check-test is failed. It would be difficult for an independent adjudicator to pass judgment on a text without having been present.

  The Registrar seeks to remove the instructor's certificate only after a third consecutive unsatisfactory performance. A statutory mechanism already does exist to protect any instructor who wishes to appeal against the Registrar's decision to take removal action.

  Mr. Barnes
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many driving instructors who have been removed from registration during the last four years following check-test failures have then sought re-qualification by taking the appropriate examinations; how many of these have been successful; and if he will make a statement. [63075]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  In the last four years, 254 instructors have been removed from the Register of Approved Driving Instructors following check-test failure. But information about how many have subsequently sought re-qualification, and how many have been successful, is not held in a retrievable form.

  Family Dwellings
  Mr. Jim Cunningham
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if the Government will appoint a commission to re-examine standards for, and design of, family dwellings. [62283]

  Mr. Raynsford
  I have no plans to do so. The Building Regulations set minimum standards for the health and safety of people in and around dwellings, as well as making requirements for energy efficiency and access for disabled people. Housing warranty providers also set their own standards over and above the requirements of the Building Regulations.

  In addition, my Department has commissioned a set of detailed Housing Quality Indicators, which can be used to evaluate all aspects of housing design, from internal and external layout and space standards to energy efficiency and sustainable construction. The Indicators will be published early in the New Year, and the Housing Corporation has recommended their use by all Registered Social Landlords.

  Motorway Service Areas
  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the criteria used by the Highways Agency to determine the basis of need for a new motorway service area to be built. [62902]
  195
  Ms Glenda Jackson
  Decisions on the need for new motorway service areas (MSAs) are not matters for the Highways Agency. Its role is to advise on the impact of MSA proposals on the operation and safety of the motorway and trunk road network. Need is a matter for planning authorities to consider in the light of that and other relative advice. Guidance on the criteria to be used in determining need issues was contained in my answer of 31 July 1998,Official Report, columns 611–12. Copies are in the House Libraries.

  Nuclear Fuel Transport (Irish Sea)
  Mr. McNamara
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list(a) what representations he has received concerning the 24 October 1998 incident involving the 'Pacific Crane' vessel in the Irish Sea, (b) what assessment he has made of the environmental issues raised and (c) what (i) correspondence and (ii) meetings have taken place with British Nuclear Fuels Ltd. since the incident; and if he will make a statement. [61969]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  I refer my hon. Friend to my answer of 7 December 1998,Official Report, column 47.

  Waste Strategy
  Mr. Blizzard
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what advice he is taking on the responses to the consultation paper on the new waste strategy for England and Wales "Less Waste: more value". [63604]

  Mr. Meacher
  My Department is examining all the comments that were made, both by individuals and by organisations in response to "Less waste: more value". Where further elucidation seems necessary, they are discussing points with a number of experts selected on a personal basis, as well as continuing to hold regular liaison and ad hoc meetings with representative bodies from local government, the community sector and industry. The aim of this consultation is to produce a draft waste strategy next spring for further consultation with a view to adopting a final strategy before the end of 1999.

  Fuel Duty Rebates
  Mr. Stinchcombe
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the advantages of introducing necessary user rebates in respect of fuel duties paid by the disabled and their carers. [61796]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  The Government have no plans to introduce a fuel duty rebate for disabled motorists but they will continue to take account of the impact of the fuel duty escalator on these and other essential car users. Whilst disabled motorists often need the use of a car, they can still reduce their fuel consumption and, in some cases, will be able to choose significantly more fuel-efficient vehicles which manufacturers are committed to introducing to the market. Disability Living Allowance, which will rise in line with inflation, also provides a contribution towards the extra costs of disability, and is awarded on the basis of the mobility as well as care needs of disabled people. In addition, vehicles owned by many disabled drivers are exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty.

  Ministerial E-mail Address
  Mr. Brake
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what is his e-mail address. [62556]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister, and all other Ministers in this Department, can currently be contacted via the Department's Web site—WWW.DETR.GOV.UK. All members of the Department, including my right hon. Friend, will have individual e-mail addresses from March next year.

  Non-metallic Storage Vessels
  Mr. Barnes
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the Health and Safety Executive's findings over the past 10 years on the failures of non-metallic storage vessels including plastic-lined GRP storage vessels, together with relevant information on recorded failures which is contained in the HSE database of investigated incidents; and if he will make a statement. [62303]

  Mr. Meacher
  [holding answer 7 December 1998]: A research report by the Health and Safety Laboratory of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reviewed all the failures of non-metallic vessels reported to HSE during the period 1986–1996. The report discloses that early experience with GRP storage vessels was disappointing due to poor design, poor or inadequate installation, lack of suitable testing and inspection techniques, poor fabrication or materials specification, environmental stress cracking, and user-abuse. A number of key recommendations aimed at addressing these problems are contained in the report and HSE is reviewing its guidance in the light of these. In total, the report reviews a total of 59 incidents, 7 of which involved plastic-lined GRP storage vessels. Arrangements are in hand for a copy of the report to be placed in the Commons Library.

  Regional Development Agencies
  Mr. Peter Bradley
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how and when he will consult rural communities and their representative bodies in accordance with section 2(3) of the Regional Development Agencies Act 1998 before appointing members to the RDA boards. [63092]

  Mr. Caborn
  The Government started the appointments process while the legislation was before Parliament, in order to be in a position to take decision on appointments to the RDA boards soon after the commencement of the Regional Development Agencies Act 1998.

  Earlier this year we advertised in the national press for applications direct from individuals and also consulted a wide range of bodies asking them to nominate people whom they thought were suitable for board membership. These groups included many who represent the interests of rural communities.

  Departmental Staff
  Mr. Robert Jackson
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list the special advisers in his Department and the issues on which they specialise; and to what level they have been security cleared. [62841]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  The following Special Advisers are employed in the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions:Joe Irvin full-time special adviser. He advises on all areas for which the DPM is responsible.
  Joan Hammell full-time special adviser. She also assists the DPM.
  Paul Hackett, part-time special adviser. Advises on regional issues.

  Name

  Company

  Current responsibilities

  A. Carter

  Boots the Chemist Ltd.

  Contributing to planning and regeneration issues, including work on sustainable communities, the New Deal for Communities, and the revision of planning guidance

  M. Coe

  Unilever

  Advising on promoting greater environmental awareness by business

  B. Everett

  Bellway Urban Renewal

  Secretariat of the Urban Task Force

  J. Faragher

  CRE Group Ltd.

  Expert adviser in the European Commission on environmental management systems and the development of the ecomanagement and audit scheme

  C. Fulford

  KPMG

  Secretariat of the Urban Task Force

  J. Hall

  Institute for Fiscal Studies

  Providing advice on industrial, regional and labour market issues

  M. Salter

  OPM

  Secretariat of the Urban Task Force

  G. Pearce

  Bank of Scotland

  Assisting with the restructuring arrangements for Channel Tunnel Rail Link

  A. Stacey

  ABROS

  Secretariat of the Urban Task Force

  S. Tindale

  IPPR

  Attached to the Sustainable Development Unit providing advice on environmental issues

  A. Wain

  Kvaerner Construction

  Implementation of the recommendations of Sir John Egan's Construction Task Force Report "Rethinking Construction"

  Railtrack
  Mr. Mullin
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what assessment he has made of the transparency of the information provided by Railtrack regarding levels of capital investment and spending on maintenance; and if he will make a statement. [62601]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  Under Condition 7 of its Network Licence, Railtrack is required to publish an annual Network Management Statement (NMS), setting out its plans for the maintenance, renewal and development of the rail network for a ten year period, with greater detail for the first three years of the programme. The form of the NMS, and the period it covers, has to be approved by the Rail Regulator.

  Asbestos
  Mr. Worthington
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what evidence he has obtained that contractors from other countries dump asbestos waste in Britain. [62636]

  Mr. Meacher
  The import of asbestos waste into Great Britain is controlled by the Asbestos (Prohibitions) Regulations 1992. Under these Regulations, the import of
  198
  Darren Murphy part-time special adviser. Advises on local government and housing.
  Richard Olszewski. Special adviser on transport issues.

  Special Advisers are subject to the usual security clearance arrangements. It is not appropriate to give details about particular individual's level of security clearance.

  Mr. Robert Jackson
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many people in his Department are currently on secondment from private companies; and if he will list them, their companies and their current responsibilities within Government. [62831]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  There are currently 11 people on secondment to the Department from private companies. They are listed:

  amphibole (largely brown or blue) asbestos waste is prohibited. Proposals from the Health and Safety Commission, currently under consultation, will extend this prohibition to include the import of chrysotile (white) asbestos waste.

  While derogations from the Regulations to allow imports may be sought, a certificate of exemption would be granted only in exceptional circumstances and be subject to stringent conditions. No certificates of exemption have so far been issued for the import of asbestos from another country into Great Britain.

  There is no evidence of any illegal imports of asbestos waste into Great Britain.

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

  Petrol Industry
  Mr. Boswell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for what reason the pricing behaviour of petrol retailers on motorways was not included in the report into the retail petrol industry by the Director General of Fair Trading published on 18 May; and if he will make a statement. [62404]
  199
  Dr. Howells
  [holding answer 7 December 1998]: The content of the report is a matter for the Director General of Fair Trading. I am asking him to reply to the hon. Member directly.

  Millennium Experience
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make it his policy to refuse sponsorship for the New Millennium Experience Company from companies which are in receipt of Government grants. [61991]

  Mr. Mandelson
  [holding answer 1 December 1998]: I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Montgomeryshire (Mr. Öpik) on 16 November 1998, Official Report, columns 421–22.

  Sombrero Island
  Mr. Cohen
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the application made to use the island of Sombrero, near Anguilla, as a rocket launch site; what assessment he has made of the likely effect on wildlife on the island; and if he will make a statement. [62097]

  Mr. Battle
  Beal Aerospace, an American company, wish to develop Sombrero Island as a satellite launch site, and have already negotiated with the Government of Anguilla an option to lease Sombrero. The Anguillan Government have negotiated conditions on the lease which include their being satisfied on the likely impact upon the environment. Beal have submitted an Environmental Impact Report on the project to the Anguillan and UK Governments.

  It will be for the Anguillan Government to decide whether or not to give permission to Beal Aerospace to develop the island. The UK's role is to give whatever advice and assistance is necessary to help the Government of Anguilla make that decision. We anticipate this assistance to include providing an evaluation of the Environmental Impact Report. In the interests of transparency and open debate, the UK Government are making copies of the Environmental Impact Report available to the UK Non-Governmental Organisations who have expressed an interest. Over the next few weeks officials will be discussing with the Government of Anguilla the detailed plans for assisting them with the planning application.

  Departmental Staff
  Mr. Robert Jackson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list the special advisers in his Department and the issues on which they specialise; and to what level they have been security cleared. [62832]

  Mr. Mandelson
  I have two special advisers, Benjamin Wegg-Prosser and Dan Cony. They advise me and my colleagues on the full range of issues for which we are responsible.
  200
  Special Advisers are subject to the usual security clearance arrangements. It is not appropriate to give details about particular individuals' level of security clearance.

  Indonesia (Hawk Aircraft)
  Mr. Nigel Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what proportion of the purchase price for 24 Hawk aircraft(a) remains to be repaid by the Indonesian Government and (b) has subsequently been included in the rescheduling of Indonesia's international debts. [62971]

  Mr. Mandelson
  The information is as follows:

  (a) Principal loan repayments remaining to be paid by the Indonesian Government equate with 40 per cent. of the original purchase price. The ECGD supported loan was for 80 per cent. of the purchase price.

  (b) Principal instalments totalling 167 million US Dollars have been included in the rescheduling.

  Export Licences
  Mrs. Gillan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what percentage of applications for export licences were processed by his Department within 20 days for the period 13 July to date. [61929]

  Mrs. Roche
  The Export Control Organisation (ECO) of DTI measures export licence processing performance against two aims:to provide a substantive response to an application within 20 working days of receipt for applications that need to be circulated to other Government Departments according to their policy requirements ("circulated cases")
  to provide such a response within 10 working days of receipt of applications that are dealt with by the DTI itself ("non-circulated cases").

  In each case, full documentation in support of the application must be provided by the applicant at the outset for these targets to apply.

  ECO management data on the processing of licence applications is compiled on the basis of four-week periods. The accumulated data for the periods beginning 27 June 1998 to 13 November 1998 showed that to the nearest percentage point 45 per cent. of circulated cases were finalised within 20 working days and 82 per cent. of non-circulated cases were finalised within 10 working days.

  This information was taken from ECO's management data, which are compiled to monitor processing of Standard Individual Export Licences. The performance measures do not apply to applications for Open Individual Export Licences (due to wide variations between goods and country coverage of such licences), to licences covering Iran or to exports which are subject to control solely because of United Nations Sanctions.

  Mrs. Gillan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many export licence applications were refused by the Export Control Organisation during each of the four week periods used by his Department from 29 May to date. [61931]
  201
  Mrs. Roche
  The Export Control Organisation's computer databases have been interrogated and the numbers of applications for Standard Individual Export Licences refused in full for each period are as follows:

  Period

  Standard individual export licenses

  30 May 1998–26 June 1998

  9

  27 June 1998–24 July 1998

  4

  25 July 1998–21 August 1998

  10

  22 August 1998–18 September 1998

  10

  19 September 1998–16 October 1998

  10

  17 October 1998–13 November 1998

  9

  No Open Individual Export Licences were refused in full during the period.

  This information should be considered in the light of my answer to a question from my hon. Friend the Member for Don Valley (Caroline Flint) on 30 October 1997, Official Report, columns 870–71.

HEALTH

  Investing in Dentistry
  Jackie Ballard
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much money has been allocated to Investing in Dentistry up to 30 November; which health authority areas have applied for such funds to date; how much each has bid for; and how many applications have been successful in each health authority area. [62103]

  Mr. Milburn
  Since the Investing in Dentistry initiative was announced in September last year, grants totalling £6,843,582 have been approved. The table gives details of the health authorities who submitted Investing in Dentistry funding requests to the Secretary of State in 1997–98 and 1998–99 to date, the gross amount of funding requested, and the number of applications approved.

  Investing in dentistry requests by Health Authority

  £

  Health Authority

  Number of applications approved

  Gross funding requested

  Avon

  4

  428,100

  Barnet

  —

  214,900

  Barnsley

  3

  124,200

  Bedfordshire

  2

  30,000

  Berkshire

  5

  175,000

  Bexley and Greenwich

  —

  396,000

  Birmingham

  1

  76,700

  Bradford

  1

  354,300

  Bury and Rochdale

  —

  33,100

  Calderdale and Kirklees

  —

  240,664

  Cambridge and Huntingdon

  4

  396,400

  City and East London

  5

  290,800

  Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

  7

  990,600

  County Durham

  3

  332,905

  Coventry

  —

  49,000

  Doncaster

  2

  119,400

  Dorset

  2

  101,597

  Dudley

  —

  39,500

  Ealing, Hammersmith and Hounslow

  6

  155,000

  202

  Investing in dentistry requests by Health Authority

  £

  Health Authority

  Number of applications approved

  Gross funding requested

  East Kent

  —

  518,400

  East Lancashire

  1

  605,600

  East Norfolk

  3

  453,800

  East Riding

  6

  423,000

  East Sussex

  —

  60,000

  Enfield and Haringay

  —

  197,000

  Gloucestershire

  10

  603,500

  Herefordshire

  2

  60,000

  Isle of Wight

  2

  165,000

  Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster

  —

  267,000

  Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham

  2

  207,000

  Leeds

  —

  492,455

  Leicestershire

  2

  162,100

  Lincolnshire

  2

  130,000

  Liverpool

  1

  147,100

  Merton, Sutton and Wandsworth

  2

  95,770

  Morecombe Bay

  6

  226,500

  Newcastle and North Tyneside

  2

  240,311

  Northamptonshire

  4

  70,000

  North Cheshire

  1

  50,000

  North Cumbria

  5

  309,300

  North Derbyshire

  1

  60,400

  North and East Devon

  7

  295,600

  North Essex

  2

  38,400

  North and Mid Hampshire

  7

  579,900

  North Staffordshire

  6

  276,500

  North West Lancashire

  5

  311,700

  North Yorkshire

  8

  550,900

  North West Anglia

  —

  90,000

  Nottingham

  2

  222,800

  Oxfordshire

  6

  242,000

  Portsmouth and South East Hampshire

  8

  719,400

  Redbridge and Waltham Forest

  4

  209,700

  Rotherham

  6

  312,700

  Salford and Trafford

  2

  22,200

  Sandwell

  —

  151,000

  St Helens and Knowsley

  3

  162,100

  Shropshire

  7

  412,000

  Somerset

  5

  722,200

  Southern Derbyshire

  1

  116,600

  South Cheshire

  7

  253,500

  South Essex

  1

  45,000

  South Humber

  2

  83,000

  South Lancashire

  1

  187,400

  South Staffordshire

  2

  143,000

  South West Devon

  8

  282,000

  Southampton and South West Hampshire

  8

  918,800

  Stockport

  —

  14,000

  Suffolk

  6

  124,000

  Sunderland

  —

  207,620

  Tees

  —

  146,914

  Walsall

  —

  100,500

  Warwickshire

  —

  154,000

  West Hertfordshire

  1

  107,900

  West Kent

  2

  80,200

  West Surrey

  4

  846,850

  West Sussex

  5

  743,600

  Wigan and Bolton

  1

  194,000

  Wiltshire

  14

  1,128,600

  Wirral

  —

  123,000

  Wolverhampton

  1

  132,500

  Worcestershire

  1

  232,000

  240

  21,776,486

  Note:

  1. Gross funding figures have been rounded up to the nearest hundred pounds.

  2. Some gross funding figures may be inflated due to the inclusion of revised or re-submitted applications.

  Aspirin
  Mr. Todd
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the impact on the retail price of aspirin of changes in the maximum quantities available over the counter at pharmacies. [62295]

  Ms Jowell
  The Department has made no assessment of the impact on the price of aspirin products, this is a matter for the Office of Fair Trading. The Director General of Fair Trading has investigated the pricing of a number of pack sizes of aspirin and paracetamol that were available over the counter before and after the introduction of the new pack sizes. He did not find any evidence of anti-competitive behaviour. The market in analgesics is very competitive and equivalent products are available at a wide variety of prices. The Director General will keep the market for analgesics under review and will investigate any anti-competitive behaviour.

  Health Authority Funding Formula (South-West)
  Jackie Ballard
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health by what means the funding formula for health authorities in South West England takes account of the number of older people resident in them. [62386]

  Mr. Milburn
  The national funding formula used to inform health authorities' unified allocations includes adjustments to take account of the relative healthcare needs of different age groups. Elderly people require relatively more health care, and the target allocations of health authorities reflect this.

  Bartlet Hospital, Felixstowe
  Mr. Gummer
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what account he took of the closure of other local health services in considering the proposal to close the Bartlett Hospital in Felixstowe; and what assessment he made of the overall impact of the proposed closures. [62317]

  Mr. Dobson
  I have rejected the proposals to transfer the rehabilitation and recovery services from the Bartlet hospital, Felixstowe to Ipswich hospital until Suffolk Health Authority has undertaken a full and comprehensive review of the implications for the future of the Bartlet hospital. This must clearly take into account other local health services.

  Dental Health
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will rank by English health authority those areas with the poorest dental health. [62532]

  Mr. Milburn
  The table ranks health authorities in England by decayed, missing or filled teeth of 5-year-old children for the year 1995–96. These results are from a survey co-ordinated by the British Association for the Study of Community Dentistry. Information for Leicestershire Health Authority is not available.204

  Mean decayed missing or filled teeth by health authority

  Health authority

  Decayed, missing filled teeth

  Rank

  Manchester

  3.41

  1

  Bury and Rochdale

  3.15

  2

  West Pennine

  2.99

  3

  St. Helen's and Knowsley

  2.91

  4

  Sunderland

  2.84

  5

  East Lancashire

  2.83

  6

  Wigan and Bolton

  2.76

  7

  Bradford

  2.60

  8

  Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster

  2.39

  9

  Morecambe Bay

  2.36

  10

  Camden and Islington

  2.32

  11

  Salford and Trafford

  2.31

  12

  Calderdale and Kirklees

  2.30

  13

  East London and the City

  2.27

  14

  Rotherham

  2.23

  15

  Leeds Healthcare

  2.23

  16

  North West Lancashire

  2.22

  17

  County Durham Health Commission

  2.21

  18

  Southampton and South West Hampshire

  2.18

  19

  Wirral

  2.16

  20

  North Cumbria

  2.15

  21

  Wakefield Health Care

  2.15

  22

  Barnet

  2.11

  23

  Ealing, Hammersmith and Hounslow

  2.11

  24

  Tees

  2.11

  25

  South Lancashire

  2.10

  26

  Stockport

  2.08

  27

  Doncaster

  2.08

  28

  Gateshead and South Tyneside

  2.05

  29

  Northumberland

  1.95

  30

  Sheffield

  1.94

  31

  East Riding

  1.91

  32

  Brent and Harrow

  1.89

  33

  Liverpool

  1.85

  34

  North Staffordshire

  1.81

  35

  Redbridge and Waltham Forest

  1.79

  36

  North Cheshire

  1.78

  37

  Sefton

  1.77

  38

  Barnsley

  1.77

  39

  Portsmouth and South East Hampshire

  1.77

  40

  North Yorkshire

  1.77

  41

  North and East Devon

  1.76

  42

  East Norfolk

  1.72

  43

  North Nottinghamshire

  1.69

  44

  South and West Devon

  1.67

  45

  Enfield and Haringey

  1.65

  46

  Berkshire

  1.65

  47

  Herefordshire

  1.64

  48

  Isle of Wight Health Commisison

  1.60

  49

  East and North Hertfordshire

  1.57

  50

  South Humber

  1.56

  51

  Hillingdon

  1.55

  52

  Oxfordshire

  1.51

  53

  Bedfordshire

  1.48

  54

  South Cheshire

  1.48

  55

  Cornwall and Isles of Scilly

  1.47

  56

  Northamptonshire

  1.45

  57

  West Kent

  1.43

  58

  Somerset

  1.43

  59

  Shropshire

  1.43

  60

  South Derbyshire

  1.42

  61

  Wolverhampton

  1.41

  62

  Barking and Havering

  1.39

  63

  Wiltshire

  1.39

  64

  Croydon

  1.38

  65

  Merton, Sutton and Wandsworth

  1.37

  66

  East Surrey

  1.36

  67

  Newcastle and North Tyneside

  1.35

  68

  Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham

  1.30

  69

  Buckinghamshire

  1.29

  70

  Nottingham

  1.29

  71

  205

  Mean decayed missing or filled teeth by health authority

  Health authority

  Decayed, missing filled teeth

  Rank

  Bexley and Greenwich

  1.28

  72

  Gloucestershire

  1.28

  73

  Dorset

  1.25

  74

  West Surrey

  1.22

  75

  Coventry

  1.22

  76

  West Hertfordshire

  1.22

  77

  North Derbyshire

  1.21

  78

  Cambridge and Huntingdon

  1.19

  79

  East Sussex, Brighton and Hove

  1.19

  80

  Bromley

  1.18

  81

  South Essex

  1.16

  82

  North West Anglia

  1.15

  83

  East Kent

  1.13

  84

  Birmingham

  1.08

  85

  North and Mid Hampshire

  1.03

  86

  Suffolk

  1.00

  87

  West Sussex

  0.97

  88

  Kingston and Richmond

  0.97

  89

  Lincolnshire

  0.97

  90

  Sandwell

  0.95

  91

  Avon

  0.92

  92

  Walsall

  0.92

  93

  North Essex

  0.88

  94

  Warwickshire

  0.84

  95

  Worcestershire

  0.84

  96

  Dudley

  0.81

  97

  South Staffordshire

  0.79

  98

  Solihull

  0.56

  99

  Leicestershire

  n/a

  —

  Source:

  Data from the BASCD co-ordinated 1995–96 National Health Service Dental Epidemiological Programme survey of 5-year-old children

  Dental Nurses
  Mr. Hancock
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what representations he has received in support of changes to the Dentists Act 1984 to allow the statutory registration of dental nurses; and if he will make a statement; [63029]

  (2) how many dental nurses currently employed by the National Health Service have passed the National Certificate examination awarded by the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses; [63030]

  (3) what plans he has to review the operation of the Dentists Act 1984. [63028]

  Mr. Milburn
  The General Dental Council has proposed that it should set up a statutory register of dental nurses, entry to which would be dependent upon the satisfactory completion of an approved training programme. We support this proposal and, in due course, will consider if measures to strengthen the existing regulatory systems of the health care professions, which we plan to include in the forthcoming National Health Service Bill, could be used to make the necessary amendments to the Dentists Act 1984. Information is not held centrally upon numbers of dental nurses, but each year some 2,000 candidates pass the examinations of the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses.

  Secondments
  Mr. Robert Jackson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many people in his Department are currently 206
  on secondment from private companies; and if he will list them, their companies and their current responsibilities within Government. [62821]

  Ms Jowell
  Central records are held on three such secondments:

  Company

  Current responsibilities

  Lloyd's Bank

  To provide advice on project finance issues involved in taking forward private finance initiative projects at National Health Service trusts

  Pricewaterhouse Coopers

  To provide advice on project finance issues involved in taking forward private finance initiative projects at NHS trusts

  Ward Hathaway Solicitors

  To provide advice on legal issues involved in taking forward private finance initiative projects at NHS trusts

  Special Advisers
  Mr. Robert Jackson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the special advisers in his Department and the issues on which they specialise; and to what level they have been security cleared. [62838]

  Mr. Milburn
  There are two special advisers in the Department, Mr. Simon Stevens and Mr. Joe McCrea. Special advisers advise on the full range of issues for which Ministers are responsible and are subject to the usual security clearance arrangements.

  Retinal Implants
  Mr. Nigel Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what research his Department is funding into the use of electronic retinal implants for the blind and partially-sighted. [62966]

  Mr. Milburn
  None at present, but the Department and the ophthalmic professions monitor the results of major research and development projects funded from other sources.

  Smoking
  Mrs. Lait
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the percentage of people smoking in(a) 1995, (b) 1996 and (c) 1997. [62793]

  Ms Jowell
  The information is not available for 1995 and 1997. Available information is as follows:

  Prevalence of cigarette smoking among adults aged 16 and over, by gender England 1994 and 1996

  Percentage

  1994

  1996

  Men

  28

  28

  Women

  25

  27

  All persons

  26

  28

  Note:

  1. Percentages rounded to the nearest whole figures

  Source:

  Office of National Statistics General Household Survey
  207

  Prevalence of regular cigarette smoking among secondary school children aged 11–15 by gender England 1994 and 1996

  Percentage

  1994

  1996

  Boys

  10

  11

  Girls

  13

  15

  Pupils

  12

  13

  Note:

  1. Regular smokers are pupils who usually smoke at least one cigarette a week

  2. Percentages rounded to the nearest whole figure

  Source:

  ONS Smoking among secondary school children

  Neurological Diseases
  Dr. Desmond Turner
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the recorded incidence per 1,000 population of(a) motor neurone disease, (b) multiple sclerosis and (c) Alzheimer's disease was at five-year intervals during the last 30 years. [63136]

  Mr. Hutton
  I refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on 7 May 1998,Official Report, column 503.

  Medicines Control Agencies and Medical Devices Agencies
  Mr. Ian Stewart
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what future plans there are for the Medicines Control Agency and the Medical Devices Agency. [63429]

  Mr. Milburn
  The Department of Health is carrying out a study to identify the longer-term organisational arrangements which will best support the effective regulation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices carried out by the Medicines Control Agency and the Medical Devices Agency respectively. The terms of reference for the study have been placed in the Library.

LORD CHANCELLOR'S DEPARTMENT

  Immigration Appeals Tribunal
  Mr. McNamara
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will list(a) the number of cases the Special Immigration Appeals Tribunal has heard since its inception, (b) how many of these appeals have been successful and (c) how many cases are pending. [61967]

  Mr. Hoon
  The Special Immigration Appeals Commission has so far received four appeals. None of these have yet been heard. They are all subject to Directions hearings to determine how they are to proceed to full hearing.

  Land Registry Offices
  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department which of the Land Registry offices his latest accommodation review has revealed as surplus to current requirements; and what action he now proposes to take with regard to them. [62895]

  Mr. Hoon
  The Land Registry's latest accommodation review has revealed that a sub-office (1,269 sq m) of the Gloucester District Land Registry is surplus to current 208
  requirements. The Land Registry is actively marketing the sale of the lease. Since 1990, the Land Registry has reduced its estate by some 43,000 sq m of accommodation, covering 34 sites.

  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department which Land Registry offices in the North West have sufficient spare capacity in terms of space or people to enable them to take on the work currently conducted by the Lytham Land Registry. [62896]

  Mr. Hoon
  There are no Land Registry offices in the North-West which have sufficient spare capacity in terms of space or people to enable them to take on the work currently conducted by the Lytham Land Registry.

  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department what analysis his Department or the Land Registry has undertaken on the future of the Land Registry office in Lytham. [62897]

  Mr. Hoon
  An analysis by the Land Registry on the future of its office in Lytham has concluded that registration activity is projected to increase by up to 20 per cent. over the next five years following recent land registration legislation. Existing accommodation, which is operating at fully capacity, will therefore soon be insufficient to carry out its business.

  The Land Registry intends to redevelop its nearby Warton site to house the registration work generated by the County of Lancashire. The existing Lytham building will cater for work generated by Greater Manchester.

  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will make a statement on the operational future of the Land Registry office in Lytham(a) in the next 12 months, (b) in the next three years and (c) in the next five years. [62898]

  Mr. Hoon
  In the next 12 months the Land Registry will begin to operate from its Lytham office as the Lytham District Land Registry (dealing with registrations from Greater Manchester) and the Lancashire District Land Registry (dealing with registration from Lancashire)—the latter moving to the new accommodation at nearby Warton on its completion. Over the next five years the two business units will be taking forward partnerships with local authorities to register all of their landholdings. This will bring considerable security and efficiency benefits to local authorities and to the local taxpayer.

  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department if he is currently acting on a request from the Treasury to review the property portfolio of office accommodation currently used by the Land Registry. [62899]

  Mr. Hoon
  A review of the property portfolio of office accommodation used by the Land Registry was carried out as part of the Government's Comprehensive Spending Review. The review identified some 13,000 sq m of accommodation as surplus to requirements and this has now been disposed of.

  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will list the cost of operation per employee of each of the Land Registry offices. [62900]
  209
  Mr. Hoon
  Excluding one-off costs, the costs of operation per employee in 1997–98 of each of the Land Registry's offices were as follows:

  Offices

  £

  Birkenhead

  21,814

  Coventry

  22,047

  Croydon

  27,358

  Durham

  20,372

  Gloucester

  23,968

  Harrow

  27,508

  Hull

  23,274

  Leicester

  22,008

  Lytham

  22,526

  Nottingham

  21,132

  Peterborough

  26,199

  Plymouth

  24,019

  Portsmouth

  26,056

  Stevenage

  23,487

  Swansea

  22,466

  Telford

  23,548

  Tunbridge Wells

  22,583

  Weymouth

  22,664

  York

  26,957

  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department when he last assessed the office accommodation requirements for the Land Registry; and if he will make a statement. [62901]

  Mr. Hoon
  The office accommodation requirements for the Land Registry were last assessed as part of its business planning cycle and are shown in the Land Registry's Corporate Plan 1998–2003 and its published Business Plan 1998–99. Both Plans were approved by the Lord Chancellor.

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

  Indonesia
  Mr. McNulty
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on assistance given by her Department for elections in Indonesia. [63388]

  Clare Short
  Indonesia is planning to hold Parliamentary Elections next year. Elections that are free, fair and inclusive will be essential in helping restore political and economic stability and in reversing the recent increase in poverty. We shall work towards this end with the United Nations Development Programme, which has been asked to co-ordinate donor assistance. We shall contribute up to £1 million—some of it immediately—linked to satisfactory progress with preparations for the elections.

  Secondments
  Mr. Robert Jackson
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how many people in her Department are currently on secondment from private companies; and if she will list them, their companies and their current responsibilities within Government. [62818]
  210
  Clare Short
  There is currently one staff member from NRI/University of Greenwich seconded to my Department. He is Dr. Guy Poulter filling the position of Senior Natural Resources Adviser (Research) in my Department's London HQ.

HOME DEPARTMENT

  Torture
  Mr. McNamara
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will(a) list the recommendations made by the UN Committee Against Torture following its examination of the UK Periodic report, (b) indicate what measures he will take in response, (c) place the observations and comments of the Committee in the Library, (d) list NGO submissions to the Committee concerning the UK report and (e) place these submissions in the Library. [61965]

  Mr. Boateng
  The United Nations Committee Against Torture made the following recommendations:

  (a) The closure of detention centres, particularly Castlereagh, at the earliest opportunity.

  (b) The reform of the State Immunity Act 1978, to ensure that its provisions conform to the obligations contained in the Convention.

  (c)The reform of sections 134(4) and (5)(b)(iii) of the Criminal Justice Act 1988, to bring them into conformity with the obligations contained in article 2 of the Convention.

  (d) The abolition of the use of plastic bullet rounds as a means of riot control.

  (e) Reconstruction of the Royal Ulster Constabulary so that it more closely represents the cultural realities of Northern Ireland. This should continue to be associated with an extensive programme of re-education for members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary, directed at the objectives of the Peace accord and the best methods of modern police practices.

  (f) The Committee finally recommends that, in the case of Senator Pinochet of Chile, the matter be referred to the office of the public prosecutor, with a view to examining the feasibility of and, if appropriate, initiating criminal proceedings in England, in the event that the decision is made not to extradite him. This would satisfy the State Party's obligations under articles 4 to 7 of the Convention and article 27 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties of 1969.

  The Government will formally respond to the Committee in the United Kingdom's Fourth Periodic Report, which will be due in January 2002.

  A copy of the Committee's conclusions and recommendations is being placed in the Library. NGO submissions were made direct to the United Nations Committee Against Torture. We are asking the Committee for the information requested and I will write to my hon. Friend when we have received a reply.

  Public Interest Immunity Certificates
  Mr. McNamara
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list(a) how many public interest immunity certificates he has signed in each quarter since May 1997, (b) how many requests for such certificates have originated in each sub-division of his Department and (c) how many such certificates have been issued in the course of hearings of the criminal division of the Court of Appeal. [61966]
  211
  Mr. Straw
  The number of Public Interest Immunity certificates signed by me in each quarter since May 1997 is as follows:

  May-July 1997: 0

  August-October 1997: 4

  November 1997-January 1998: 2

  February-April 1998: 2

  May-July 1998: 4

  August-October 1998: 1

  November 1998: 1.

  These figures include any certificates signed by my Ministers.

  Of these 14 certificates, five originated from requests made by the Prison Service and nine originated from requests made by the Security Service.

  Two certificates have been issued in relation to proceedings in the Criminal Division of the Court of Appeal.

  Police Dogs
  Mr. Rendel
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many new police dogs were taken on by the police in each of the last five years; and what percentage of these dogs were found to be unsuitable for use as working dogs following the training period. [63077]

  Mr. Boateng
  The information requested is not held centrally and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.

  Mr. Rendel
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department by whom the dog-training manuals used by police dog units are compiled; and how often they are updated. [63078]

  Mr. Boateng
  The current edition of the Police Dog Training and Care Manual was drawn up by members of the Home Office Standing Advisory Committee on Police Dogs and was issued to all forces in 1996. Earlier this year, the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) General Policing Committee's Police Dog Sub-Committee took over the work of the Home Office Standing Advisory Committee, including responsibility for revision of the Manual. The Manual is a standing agenda item at each meeting of the ACPO Police Dog Sub-Committee and amendments are made as and when necessary. Several amendments have been made since it was issued.

  Mr. Rendel
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many police officers were recruited to dog-handling sections in each of the last five years; and how many of these have left following the training period. [63076]

  Mr. Boateng
  The information is not collected centrally. It is for individual chief constables to decide on the number of officers who are trained in and assigned to dog handling duties.

  Mr. Rendel
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what guidelines have been issued to police dog units responsible for training dogs, since the recent case against four police officers from the Essex Police Dog Section. [63079]
  212
  Mr. Boateng
  I understand that no guidelines have yet been issued to forces, as the officers who were convicted in the Essex case have decided to appeal and the allegations were specific to one force.

  Mrs. Pauline Clare, the Chief Constable of Lancashire, who chairs the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) General Policing Committee's Police Dog Sub-Committee, has, however, been in contact with Essex Police, the RSPCA, the National Canine Defence League, and Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary with a view to devising a scheme for inspection of force dog training centres. In the first instance, a pilot scheme is to be initiated within Essex involving two members of the ACPO Police Dog Sub-Committee, a representative of the RSPCA, and a member of the Essex Police Authority. The ACPO Police Dog Sub-Committee will evaluate this pilot scheme in due course.

  Fire Service (Dog Collars)
  Mr. Rendel
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department which fire service authorities are currently equipped with dog collars that administer electric shocks to the animals. [63081]

  Mr. George Howarth
  Information is not held centrally, but I am not aware of any such arrangements for dogs used by brigades to assist in fire investigations.

  Rape Cases
  Sir Teddy Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress has been made in the study he has initiated into the processing of rape cases by the criminal justice system; and when he expects to publish the full report. [63132]

  Mr. Boateng
  The research has been completed and a report is being prepared. We plan to publish the report in the first quarter of 1999.

  Prisons (Drug Offences)
  Mr. Cox
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many reported drug offences have taken place in prisons in England and Wales since 1 January. [62378]

  Mr. George Howarth
  Provisional information for 1998 showing the number of drugs offences by prisoners proved at prison adjudication is given in the table. In addition, 831 visitors to prisoners were arrested for drug related incidents at prisons in England and Wales.

  Number of drugs offences proved at adjudication in prisons in England and Wales, January to September 1998

  Offence

  Number

  Refusal to provide a drug test sample

  326

  Falsifying a drug test sample

  35

  Unauthorised use of controlled drug

  11,902

  Possession of unauthorised drug

  2,402

  Sells/delivers drugs to person

  69

  Total

  14,734

  Asylum Seekers
  Dr. Harris
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many persons from(a) Slovakia and (b) the Czech Republic have been awarded (i) refugee status and (ii) exceptional leave to remain since May 1997; and, of these, how many achieved this status following an appeal. [61683]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  For the period May 1997-October-1998, the number of initial asylum decisions made for nationals of Slovakia was 535. For that same period, the number of initial decisions made for nationals of the Czech Republic was 310. Of these, none of the above nationals was recognised as a refugee. Nor were any Slovak or Czech nationals granted exceptional leave to remain.

  Manually collected records show that six Slovakian nationals were recognised as refugees following allowed appeals. A further two were granted exceptional leave to remain on compassionate grounds, following additional representations made in their cases, after an initial

  Date

  Destination

  Purpose

  Numbers accompanying Minister

  November 1998

  Blackpool

  To attend Association of Police Authorities Conference

  3

  December 1998

  Brussels (return to Blackpool)

  Justice and Home Affairs Council

  5

  The average cost for these two additional flights was £1,451.50.

  Campsfield House
  Mr. Beith
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his answer of 1 December 1998,Official Report, column 134, how the contracts relating to Campsfield House detention centre are monitored; what financial penalty has been imposed for failure to comply with the contract; and if he will make a statement. [63090]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  The contract is monitored by a Home Office Contract Monitor, Group 4 senior management and an Independent Visiting Committee. Also, Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Prisons carries out inspections on all aspects of the management and performance of the contract. The contract provides for payments to be withheld to the extent of the contractor's failure to deliver the services to the required standard. Group 4's performance has been such that it has not been necessary to impose any financial penalty.

  Senator Pinochet
  Mr. Coaker
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he will decide whether to issue an authority to proceed in response to the Spanish extradition request for Senator Pinochet. [63335]

  Mr. Straw
  I signed an authority to proceed in respect of Senator Pinochet today. The Spanish request for his extradition will now be considered by the courts. The reasons for my decision were sent to all the parties concerned in a letter from one of my officials as set out:"1. I am writing to inform you that the Secretary of State has today signed an authority to proceed in respect of Senator Pinochet. The authority to proceed and supporting
  214
  decision was taken to refuse them asylum. In the same period, 48 appeals were dismissed and 49 were abandoned or withdrawn.

  In the case of nationals of the Czech Republic, two were recognised as refugees following appeal. A total of 36 appeals were dismissed and 25 were abandoned or withdrawn.

  Ministerial Travel
  Mr. Maples
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the cost of travel by Ministers in his Department in(a) RAF and (b) privately chartered aircraft borne by his Department (i) between 1 May 1996 and 1 May 1997 and (ii) since 1 May 1997. [60903]

  Mr. Straw
  [holding answer 27 November 1998]: I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave him on 19 November 1998, Official Report, columns 733–34, for the period between 2 May 1997 and 30 September 1998. Since that time, the following trips have also been undertaken:
  documentation are being transmitted to Bow St. I am notifying the Deputy Chief Clerk of this decision by fax. I enclose a copy of the authority to proceed for your information.
  2. The Secretary of State is not under an obligation to provide reasons for his decision to sign an authority to proceed. However, in this case, and in the light of the matters raised by the representations, he has agreed to give his reasons at this stage.

  Representations
  3. The Secretary of State received notification, before the House of Lords judgment on 25 November, that he would be receiving representations for and against the issue of an authority to proceed.
  4. Although there is no provision in the Extradition Act ("the Act") for representations at this stage in extradition proceedings, he has taken careful account of these in making his decision; in particular representations made to him by legal representatives of Senator Pinochet, the Spanish Government, the Chilean Government and legal representatives for "the Interveners" before the House of Lords. He also received material from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Ministry of Defence.
  5. The decision to issue an Authority to Proceed was taken personally by the Secretary of State.

  Requests from the French and Swiss Governments
  6. The Secretary of State received formal extradition requests for Senator Pinochet from the Spanish Government on 11 November 1998, from the Swiss Government later the same day, and from the French Government on 13 November 1998.
  7. The Secretary of State has considered these requests, and further material made available by the Swiss Government, under section 12(5) of the Act and Article 17 of the European Convention on Extradition ("ECE"). He has given precedence to the Spanish request, and notified the French and Swiss Governments accordingly.
  215
  The Secretary of State's approach to his decision
  8. He has taken his decision under section 7(4) of the Act, which provides:
  (4) On receipt of any such request the Secretary of State may issue an authority to proceed unless it appears to him that an order for the return of the person concerned could not lawfully be made, or would not in fact be made, in accordance with the provisions of this Act.
  9. The Secretary of State has taken the approach that if it already appears to him that no order for the return of Senator Pinochet to Spain could lawfully be made, or would in fact be made, then he should not issue an authority to proceed. If those conditions do not exist he has a discretion whether or not to issue an authority to proceed.
  10. He has had regard to the relevant extradition arrangement, namely the ECE. The UK's obligation is to extradite Senator Pinochet to Spain consistently with the ECE. That is a consideration to which the Secretary of State gives particular weight.
  11. In reaching his decision, the Secretary of State has considered the application of the Act to the Spanish request and all the general restrictions on surrender in sections 6 and 12 of the Act.

  Extradition crimes
  12 Section 1 of the Act provides that where, as in the case of Spain, extradition procedures under Part III of the Act are available, a person in the United Kingdom who: "is accused in that state of the commission of an extradition crime" may be arrested and returned to that state in accordance with those procedures.
  13. The Secretary of State considers that Senator Pinochet is accused, in Spain, of offences equivalent to UK offences of attempted murder, conspiracy to murder, torture, conspiracy to torture, hostage taking and conspiracy to take hostages.
  14. Senator Pinochet is also charged, under Spanish law, with genocide, and the CPS advised, on behalf of the Spanish Government, that murder is also disclosed by the request. The Secretary of State does not consider that the contents of the extradition request satisfied the definition of an extradition crime under section 2 of the Act in respect of these offences, and has therefore not included them in the authority to proceed.
  15. The relevant test under the Act was explained by the Lord Chief Justice in the Divisional Court (with whom the other judges agreed) who said: "What is necessary [for the definition of extradition crime in s. 2] is that at the time of the extradition request (rather than at the time of the conduct alleged; emphasis supplied) the offence should be a criminal offence here, …"
  16. The Secretary of State has proceeded on the basis that he is entitled, at this stage of the extradition proceedings against Senator Pinochet, to treat the Spanish request as well-founded as a matter of Spanish law.

  Sovereign or diplomatic immunity
  17. The Secretary of State has also proceeded on the basis that Senator Pinochet does not enjoy any immunity in relation to the offences in question. He has not accepted a representation made on behalf of Senator Pinochet that he should disregard the House of Lords judgment on the grounds of alleged bias on the part of one of the law lords. Nor does it appear to him that Senator Pinochet is entitled to diplomatic immunity or protection as the head of a special mission.

  General restrictions
  18. The Secretary of State has considered all the general restrictions on surrender in sections 6 and 12 of the Act. In particular, he has had regard to:

  Political Offences (section 6(1)(a))
  19. Section 24 of the Act provides that no offence to which section 1 of the Suppression of Terrorism Act applies can be regarded as an offence of a political character. Since Spain is a designated country for the purposes of section 24, the Secretary of State considers that all the offences that are to be
  216
  included in the authority to proceed fall within this provision. In any event it does not appear to him that the offences charged are of a political character.

  Punishment for political opinions (sections 6(1)(c) and (d))
  20. The Secretary of State does not consider that there are good grounds for concluding that the request has been issued for this purpose.

  The passage of time (section 12(2)(a)(ii))
  21. The Secretary of State has not been notified by the Spanish Government that any of the offences for which extradition is sought are time barred from prosecution, and considers that it is reasonable to proceed at this stage on the footing that no relevant time bar appears to apply.
  22. Nor does the Secretary of State consider that the passage of time would render it unjust or oppressive to issue an authority to proceed in this case. It does not appear that Senator Pinochet is unfit to stand trial. The offences for which return has been sought are serious, and in the nature of those for which, domestically, passage of time would not be regarded as restricting prosecution. The case is an accusation case and, ordinarily, the reliability of witnesses' memories may properly be regarded as a matter for the court of prosecution.

  Accusation not made in good faith in the interests of justice (section 12(2)(a)(iii))
  23. The Secretary of State does not believe that there are good grounds for concluding that the request has been issued other than in good faith in the interests of justice.

  The Secretary of State's discretion
  24. The Secretary of State has considered the ambit of his discretion under section 7(4) and his residual general discretion under section 12 of the Act, which would apply in relation to the return of Senator Pinochet were he to be committed by the Bow Street magistrate under section 9 of the Act. Contrary to certain of the representations made to him, he has been advised that the discretion conferred upon him is wide, and he has therefore taken a range of factors into consideration.
  25. A large number of points were raised in representations concerning the Secretary of State's discretion, including aspects of issues that fall to be considered under the general restrictions on return contained in the Act. In particular, the Secretary of State has had regard to the following:

  Humanitarian considerations
  26. Representations were made on behalf of the Senator that his age and health would render it unjust or oppressive to issue an authority to proceed. The Secretary of State has considered these carefully, but concluded that it does not appear that the Senator is unfit to stand trial and concluded that in all the circumstances it would not be unjust or oppressive for him to stand trial in relation to the offences with which he is charged. The Secretary of State also has in mind that this question, among others, can be re-examined in the light of any developments, at the stage when he comes to exercise his final discretion at the end of the extradition process, under section 12 of the Act.

  Pending proceedings in Chile
  27. The Chilean Government argued that Senator Pinochet should be returned to Chile where he could stand trial. However, there is no extradition request from the Chilean Government, which the Secretary of State could consider under section 12(5) of the Act. Moreover, there is no provision of international law which excludes Spain's jurisdiction in this matter. The Secretary of State does not consider the possibility of a trial in Chile to be a factor which outweighs the UK's obligations under the ECE to extradite Senator Pinochet to Spain.

  Other factors
  28. The Secretary of State has also considered other factors, under his general discretion, including:

  (i) the possible effect of extradition proceedings on the stability of Chile, and its future democracy; and

  (ii) the possible effect of extradition proceedings on the UK national interest.

  217
  29. He has concluded that the material and representations put before him do not amount to sufficient grounds not to issue an authority to proceed.

  Conclusion
  30. In the event that Senator Pinochet is committed to await the Secretary of State's decision on his return, the Secretary of State will consider the extradition request afresh under section 12 of the Act. At that stage he will be able to take into account any findings in the committal proceedings and any habeas corpus proceedings as well as any further representations which Senator Pinochet may wish to make against return.
  31. If Senator Pinochet decides to apply for leave to move for judicial review of the Secretary of State's decision, he reserves the right to expand upon the reasons given in this letter in an affidavit to be sworn by one of his officials."

SOCIAL SECURITY

  Pensions
  Mr. Webb
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what estimate he has made of the reduction in the cost of state earnings-related pensions arising from(a) the changes contained in legislation basing pension entitlement on lifetime earnings, and related changes and (b) the changes contained in the Pensions Act 1995 in (i) 2000, (ii) 2010, (iii) 2030 and (iv) 2040. [61440]

  Mr. Denham
  The information is in the table.

  Reduction in expenditure arising from the 1986 pensions act and the 1995 Pensions Act

  £ billion

  2001–02

  2010–11

  2030–31

  2040–41

  1986 Pensions Act1

  0.0

  -3.1

  -25.0

  -33.1

  1995 Pensions Act2

  0.0

  -0.9

  -7.5

  -10.6

  Notes:

  1. The figures are approximations based on figures from the Social Security Bill 1986, Report by the Government Actuary on the Financial Effects of the Bill on the National Insurance Fund (Cmnd 9711) assuming an extra 5 million contract out, and the Report by the Government Actuary on the Financial Effects of the Pensions Bill 1994 on the National Insurance Fund (Cmnd 2714).

  2. The figures are based on the Report by the Government Actuary on the Financial Effects of the Pensions Bill 1994 on the National Insurance Fund (Cmnd 2714).

  3. Estimates do not take account of means-tested benefit offsets.

  4. Estimates are in respect of retirement pensioners only.

  5. Figures are 1998–99 benefit rates and are rounded to the nearest £0.1 billion.

  Source:

  The Government Actuary's Department.

  Gulf War Veterans
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what the policy is of the War Pensions Agency on the seven year rule towards Gulf War veteran claimants. [62959]

  Mr. Timms
  War Pension legislation applies to Gulf War veterans in the same way as to all ex-service personnel claiming a War Pension. Anyone who considers that disablement may be due to service in the Gulf may claim a War Pension at any time after leaving H.M. Forces.

  Where a claim is made within seven years of termination of service there is no onus on the claimant to show that disablement is due to service. Even where a claim is made more than seven years after termination of
  218
  service, it is only necessary for there to be reliable evidence to create a reasonable doubt that disablement might be due to, or aggravated by, service. The benefit of that reasonable doubt is always given to the claimant.

  The Secretary of State may review a decision to reject a claim at any time and on any grounds. Where a claim made within seven years of termination of service is later reviewed, the same conditions of proof which applied at the time the claim was made apply to the review.

SCOTLAND

  Scottish Enterprise
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what the current limits are on the borrowing powers of Scottish Enterprise. [62954]

  Mr. Dewar
  There is no specified limit on the borrowing powers of Scottish Enterprise. However, Section 25(2) of the Enterprise and New Towns (Scotland) Act 1990 limits the aggregate amount of central government funding that Scottish Enterprise can receive including its general external borrowings. The limit is defined as the aggregate amount outstanding (AAO) and was set by the Scottish Enterprise (Aggregate Amount Outstanding) Order 1997 at £3,000 million. The AAO is made up of the following elements (with the level of funding at 31 March 1998 given in parenthesis): sums issued by the Secretary of State or the Treasury, in fulfilment of guarantees (nil); loans guaranteed by Scottish Enterprise or its subsidiaries (£0.3 million); payments from the Secretary of State consisting of grant-in-aid less administrative expenses plus voted loan payments (£2,470 million); and the general external borrowings of Scottish Enterprise and its subsidiaries (£3 million).

  Roads
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many classified roads cross from Scotland to England. [62955]

  Mr. Macdonald
  My right hon. Friend is responsible for the four trunk roads (the Al, A68, A7 and A74 (M)) which cross from Scotland to England. Information on other classified roads is not held centrally.

  Sustainable Development
  Mr. Wallace
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how the sustainable development indicators announced by the Deputy Prime Minister on 23 November 1998 will be applied to Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [62786]

  Mr. Macdonald
  The Government published "Sustainability Counts", a consultation paper on a set of headline indicators of sustainable development, as part of the revision of the Strategy for sustainable development for the United Kingdom. A definitive set of indicators will be published with the Strategy. In the longer term, it will be for the Scottish Parliament to decide its own approach to sustainable development, which may include the adoption of an appropriate set of indicators.

  Countryside Premium Scheme
  Mr. Wallace
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many applications were received by his Department for grants for use in 1999 under the Countryside Premium Scheme; and how many of these applications were successful. [62785]

  Mr. Macdonald
  A total of 953 Countryside Premium Scheme applications were received this year, of which just over 500 are expected to be successful.

PRIME MINISTER

  Duty Free
  Mr. Gale
  To ask the Prime Minister what discussions relating to the future of duty-free shopping were instigated by the Government at the Anglo-French Summit in St. Malo on Thursday 3 and Friday 4 December; and if he will make a statement. [62851]

  The Prime Minister
  [holding answer 7 December 1998]: At the Franco-British Summit in St. Malo the United Kingdom and France both saw a clear case for looking again at the 1991 decision to abolish duty-free sales within the European Union at the end of June 1999; but noted that unanimity would be required to amend the 1991 decision.

TREASURY

  Age Discrimination
  Mr. Hancock
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many Inland Revenue staff were required to retire before their contractual retirement age in each of the last three years. [62495]

  Dawn Primarolo
  The Inland Revenue has a contractual retirement age of 60, regardless of gender or grade, and this has been in place for many years. There are a number of retirement schemes, the majority of which are voluntary. If a member of staff was required to retire, it would be under the compulsory retirement or severance schemes, or if medical grounds were involved, under the ill health retirement scheme.

  There have been no compulsory redundancies or severances in the last three financial years, nor any to date in the current year. The number of ill health retirements are detailed in the table.

  Number of ill health retirements of Inland Revenue staff

  Year

  Number

  1995–96

  396

  1996–97

  373

  1997–98

  376

  1998–99

  149

  As is the case for all Civil Service ill health retirements, these must be approved by BMI Health Services. It is not possible to distinguish between people who requested to retire on ill health grounds and those who were required to do so. It is probable that those who requested to retire would be in the majority.

  Dog Collars (Customs and Excise)
  Mr. Rendel
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer which sections of HM Customs and Excise are currently using dog collars that administer electric shocks to the animals. [63080]

  Dawn Primarolo
  HM Customs and Excise does not use collars which administer electric shocks on any of its dogs.

  Art Collections (Access)
  Mr. Cohen
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps his Department is taking to improve the advertising of access to private works of art for which the owner receives tax relief for providing such access; and if he will make a statement.[62381]

  Dawn Primarolo
  In return for conditional tax exemption, owners of heritage assets have to provide reasonable public access to those assets and to publicise the agreed access arrangements. Most conditionally exempt works of art are displayed in houses, museums and galleries open to the public. Others which are not on public display are listed on the Inland Revenue's Register of conditionally exempt works of art, which is available on the Internet.

  The Finance Act 1998 strengthened the rules of the conditional exemption scheme to ensure, among other things, that the public are better informed about their rights to see conditionally exempt assets. In future, owners of all conditionally exempt assets will be required, as a minimum, to advertise access arrangements through the Inland Revenue's Internet site. Owners will also be required to disclose information about the terms of the exemption.

  Export Levies
  Mr. Gill
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much has been raised in levies on British exports to non-EU countries in each of the last five years; and what is the estimated figure for the current year. [63102]

  Dawn Primarolo
  Figures for receipts of export levies (which apply only to certain agricultural products) are available from 1994–95. They are as follows:

  £

  Year

  Amount

  1994–95

  5,600

  1995–96

  202,371

  1996–97

  295,679

  1997–98

  50,111

  No monies are expected to be raised from export levies in 1998–99.

  Non-EU Imports
  Mr. Gill
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much has been raised from duties on imports from non-EU countries in each of the last five years; and what is the estimated figure for the current year. [63103]
  221
  Dawn Primarolo
  Net receipts of customs duties and agricultural levies on imports from non-EU countries have been as follows:

  Year

  £ million

  1993–94

  2,169.4

  1994–95

  2,164.5

  1995–96

  2,479.5

  1996–97

  2,299.5

  1997–98

  2,263.3

  The latest estimate for 1998–99, as published in the Pre Budget Report, is £2.0 billion.

  VAT
  Mr. Gill
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his latest estimate of the yield from VAT in the current financial year; and what is his estimate of its yield in 1999–2000. [63100]

  Dawn Primarolo
  The latest forecasts for VAT (as published in the November 1998 Pre Budget Report) in 1998–99 and 1999–2000 are £52.6 billion and £55.0 billion respectively.

  Supplementary Tax Allowances
  Mr. Field
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the number of married couples over 65 years of age who are(a) receiving the full benefit of the married couples' supplementary tax allowance and (b) receiving no benefit or part benefit from those tax allowances. [62629]

  Dawn Primarolo
  Latest estimates for the number of married couples where one partner is aged 65 or more for 1998–99 are as follows:

  Thousand

  Number of couples

  (a) Receiving the full benefit of the appropriate age related married couple's allowance

  930

  (b) Receiving no benefit or part benefit of the supplementary age related married couple's allowance (including non-taxpayers)

  1,940

  Mr. Field
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the additional costs to the Treasury, for the current year, of supplementary tax allowances for the age-related personal allowance paid to citizens who are(a) aged 65 to 74 and (b) 75 years and over; and what is the total cost of age-related supplement incorporated into the married couples' allowance for the current year. [62627]

  Dawn Primarolo
  Estimated costs for 1998–99 of the excess of the aged personal and married couples' allowances over the corresponding allowances for non-aged taxpayers are as follows.

  Allowance

  £ billion

  a. Taxpayers aged (65 to 74)—personal allowance

  0.5

  b. Taxpayers aged (75 and over)—personal allowance

  0.4

  c. Taxpayers aged (65 and over)—married couples' allowance

  0.2

  Savings
  Mr. Field
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the number of(a) individuals and (b) households with savings (i) below £1,000, (ii) between £1,000 and £5,000, (iii) between £5,000 and £10,000 and (iv) above £10,000; and if these figures exclude pension fund entitlements. [62631]

  Dawn Primarolo
  Information on the estimated distribution of savings held by individuals is given in the table. Similar information on the distribution of savings held by households is shown in Table 5.9 of Family Resources Survey 1996–97, a copy of which is in the Library. Neither includes the value of accrued pension rights.

  Number of adults1 (million)

  Total

  46.0

  No savings or investments

  14.0

  With savings or investments

  32.0

  Less than £1,000

  14.5

  £1,000 but less than £5,000

  8.0

  £5,000 but less than £10,000

  3.1

  £10,000 or more

  6.4

  1 Population aged 16 or over

  Source:

  Financial Research Survey by NOP (March 1997—February 1998)

CABINET OFFICE

  Ministerial E-mail Address
  Mr. Brake
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what is the e-mail address of the Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury. [62880]

  Mr. Kilfoyle
  My right hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury does not have an E-mail address.

  Departmental Staff
  Mr. Robert Jackson
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office if he will list the special advisers in his Department and the issues on which they specialise; and to what level they have been security cleared. [62844]

  Mr. Kilfoyle
  The Minister for the Cabinet Office has appointed two Special Advisers—Ms Anna Healy and Mr. Tim Walker—who provide advice on the full range of issues for which he is responsible. In addition, the UK Anti-Drugs Co-ordinator, Mr. Keith Hellawell, and his Deputy, Mr. Michael Trace have been working in the Cabinet Office since July 1998 when the responsibility for co-ordination of anti-drugs activity was transferred from the President of the Council to my right hon. Friend.

  My right hon. Friend, the Leader of the House of Lords, Lord Privy Seal and Minister for Women has two special advisers, paid for from the Cabinet Office vote. Ms Clare Cozens advises on legislative strategy and parliamentary procedure, and policy across government. Ms Jo Gibbons advises on the presentation and co-ordination of policies which fall within my right hon. Friend's area of responsibility.
  223
  My right hon. Friend, the Government Chief Whip has two special advisers paid for from the Cabinet Office vote. Ms Sue Jackson and Mr. Ian McKenzie provide advice on the full range of issues for which the Government Chief Whip is responsible.

  The special advisers are subject to the usual security clearance arrangements.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS

  Arms Embargo (Argentina)
  Mr. Savidge
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if there have been any new exceptions to the arms embargo on Argentina. [63430]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  A licence has recently been issued to allow the export of nine sets of gun rings and smoke grenade launchers to be mounted on armoured personnel carriers in service with the Argentine contingent of the UN forces in Cyprus. This decision represented an exception but not a change to the arms embargo on Argentina.

  Cyprus
  Mr. Cox
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has

  Inward secondments from the private sector

  Name

  Company/Organisation

  Post

  Position

  Substantive appointments to posts in London or overseas

  A. Heffernan

  China Britain Trade Group

  Peking

  1st Secretary Commercial

  N. Collier

  Bank of England

  UKREP Brussels

  1st Secretary Economic and Finance

  T. McLaughlin

  British Nuclear Fuels

  Tokyo

  Counsellor Atomic Energy

  A. Vaudrey

  Civil Aviation Authority

  Washington

  Civil Air Attache

  J. Paxman

  BP

  Washington

  1st Secretary Environment

  J. McPherson

  European Investment Bank

  Ankara

  1st Secretary Commercial

  P. Jones

  BBC

  Research Department FCO

  Research Officer

  I. Sayers

  Standard Chartered Bank

  South East Asia Department FCO

  Desk Officer

  Appointments to commercial posts under the short term business attachment scheme

  M. Stephenson

  Midland Bank

  Kuala Lumpur

  Commercial Attache

  R. Pitfield

  Taylor Woodrow

  New York

  Commercial Attache

  D. Watson

  AMEC

  Johannesburg

  Commercial Attache

  R. Curwen

  Brown and Root

  Oslo

  Commercial Attache

  J. de la Paz

  Gifford and Partners

  Mexico

  Commercial Attache

  P. Shortt

  GLE

  UKREP Brussels

  Commercial Attache

  P. Forrest

  Moscow Narodny Bank

  Moscow

  Commercial Attache

  D. Johnson

  Mouchel

  Hong Kong

  Commercial Attache

  D. Musco

  Hayter Ltd

  Cairo

  Commercial Attache

  Staff seconded to overseas posts on inward investment work

  M. Davies

  Barclays

  Sydney

  Commercial Attache

  S. Wayne

  Barclays

  Los Angeles

  Commercial Attache

  J. Butler

  BT

  New York

  Commercial Attache

  M. Mullins

  National Westminster Bank

  New York

  Commercial Attache

  J. Wood

  York & Humberside Dev. Agency

  Chicago

  Commercial Attache

  J. Enefer

  Ernst & Young

  San Francisco

  Commercial Attache

  Edgar Fernandes
  Mr. Vaz
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what meetings the Minister 224
  had with the United Nations Special Representative on Cyprus, regarding her negotiations on the Cyprus issue; and if he will make a statement. [62597]

  Ms Quin
  We remain firmly committed to supporting UN efforts towards a comprehensively political settlement in Cyprus. We warmly welcomed the UN Secretary-General's 30 September announcement of a process for on-island contacts with both parties, led by the UN Deputy Special Representative for Cyprus, Dame Ann Hercus, aimed at reducing tensions and promoting progress towards a just and lasting settlement. Dame Ann has secured the agreement of the two parties to treat discussions within this process as confidential. We respect this, and urge both sides to co-operate in a constructive and flexible manner with Dame Ann, with whom we maintain close contact through our High Commissioner in Nicosia.

  Secondments
  Mr. Robert Jackson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many people in his Department are currently on secondment from private companies; and if he will list them, their companies and their current responsibilities within Government. [62829]

  Mr. Fatchett
  There are currently 23 staff seconded from the private sector to the FCO. Full details are as listed.

  of State, the right hon (Mr. Fatchett), had with Edgar Fernandes during 19 November. [62598]
  225
  Mr. Fatchett
  The prime purpose of my visit to Turkey, which took place on 17–19 November, was to promote British trade. I held a meeting with the then Deputy Prime Minister, Bulent Ecevit, at which Iraq, human rights and terrorism were the key subjects. It was not possible to discuss the case of Edgar Fernandes although, in my discussions with the British Consul General in Istanbul, I was briefed on the latest developments in the case.

  Hawk Aircraft (Indonesia)
  Mr. Nigel Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he has taken to ensure that Hawk aircraft recently sold to Indonesia will not be used for the purposes of internal repression; and if he will make a statement. [62970]

  Mr. Fatchett
  16 Hawk Aircraft were licensed by the previous Administration in October 1996. The Indonesian authorities are well aware of the Government's position on human rights.

  Mr. Nigel Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received regarding the sale of 16 Hawk aircraft to Indonesia. [62969]

  Mr. Fatchett
  We have received a number of representations from Members of Parliament, NGOs and members of the public on the question of the sale of Hawk aircraft to Indonesia.

  Strategic Arms Exports (Annual Report)
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he expects the annual report on strategic arms exports to be published. [63093]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Ruislip-Northwood (Mr. Wilkinson) on 27 November 1998,Official Report, column 385.

WALES

  National Assembly Members (Salaries)
  Mr. Syms
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he will make a decision on salaries for elected representatives in the National Assembly. [61567]

  Mr. Nicholas Winterton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he plans to determine the salaries payable to elected representatives in the Welsh Assembly. [61578]

  Mr. Michael
  I am not yet in a position to say when I shall make this decision.

  I have received a first stage report from the Senior Salary Review Body, which makes recommendations on the pay of ordinary Members, personal travel and subsistence payments and pensions and severance. I am currently considering it.

  National Minimum Wage
  Mr. Touhig
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many people in Wales will benefit from the national minimum wage. [61568]
  226
  Mr. Ruane
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many people in Wales will benefit from the national minimum wage. [61569]

  Mr. Hain
  Latest research shows that 109,000 people in Wales will benefit from the national minimum wage.

  Manufacturing Industry
  Mr. Barry Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to assist manufacturing industry in Wales. [61570]

  Mr. Hain
  The Government are pursuing policies to deliver long-term economic stability, the essential platform for encouraging high levels of growth and employment.

  Farming (Aid)
  Ms Lawrence
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the impact on Wales of the recent package of aid for British farming. [61571]

  Mr. Edwards
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the impact on Wales of the recent package of aid for British farming. [61576]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  The aid package, worth over £21 million to Welsh farmers, has helped to alleviate the forecast drop in farm incomes for 1998–99. The income figures published last week show that without the additional resources the Net Farm Income for mixed cattle and sheep farms in the Less Favoured Areas of Wales was forecast to fall by 66 per cent. The effect of the package has been to reduce that decline by around a half, to 32 per cent.

  Education Expenditure
  Mr. Gareth Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the increase in expenditure on education in Wales in 1999–2000. [61572]

  Mr. Hain
  In July this year we announced indicative increases in education spending of £110 million in 1999–2000, £250 million in 2000–01 and £370 million in 2001–02. These include increases in local authority spending on education.

  Decisions on allocations for education and other services are being announced in the statement on the local government revenue settlement.

  New Deal
  Mr. Rowlands
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the future development of the New Deal in Wales. [61573]

  Mr. Hain
  The New Deal is progressively being extended to help more people who want to find work. At the beginning of November, measures were introduced to help Disabled People and the New Deal for Lone Parents was extended from the pilot area to cover the whole of Wales. Last week we saw the introduction of pilots in West Wales and Bridgend/Rhondda Cynon Taff which brought the New Deal for Over 25s within the range of those who have been unemployed for 12 and 18 months respectively.

  Ministerial Travel
  Mr. Jack
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his Department's planned expenditure on ministerial travel for 1998–99 within Wales. [61575]

  Mr. Michael
  It is not possible to give a specific figure for ministerial travel as the money allocated is subsumed within wider travel and subsistence budgets.

  Waterhouse Child Abuse Inquiry
  Mr. Paice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he received the report by Sir Ronald Waterhouse into child abuse in North Wales; and when he expects to publish its conclusions. [61577]

  Mr. Michael
  I expect to receive the Tribunal's report early in the new year. It will be presented to the House as soon as possible thereafter.

  Steelmaking
  Mr. Fabricant
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement about the competitiveness of steelmaking in Wales. [61579]

  Mr. Hain
  The Welsh steel industry is among the most competitive in the world. However, like others, it is experiencing difficult trading conditions. The industry is therefore undertaking a range of measures to maintain its competitiveness, such as the introduction of new technology and team working. In particular British Steel has recently completed a £121m investment in a new continuous annealing process line at Port Talbot. This is the biggest single investment since privatisation and represents a massive vote of confidence in the Welsh steel Industry.

  Structural Funds
  Mr. Alan W. Williams
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the work of the taskforce established to maximise benefits from European structural funds. [61580]

  Mr. Hain
  The Taskforce was established on 16 October 1998 and has been charged with advising my right hon. Friend on Welsh interests in the ongoing negotiation of the draft Structural Funds Regulations for the period 2000–06 and considering, advising and co-ordinating the preparation of a national development strategy and related operational programmes to implement Structural Funds investment in Wales over that period.

  As part of this process, it has established working groups to examine the needs of the Welsh economy both by sector and by region and also to work up strategic and local priorities. Its work embraces a wide range of partners to enable it to command the greatest possible degree of participation and ownership.

  First Minister
  Mr. Robathan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received regarding the powers of First Minister of the Welsh National Assembly. [61581]

  Mr. Michael
  I have received no such representations.

  National Assembly Members (Election)
  Dr. Julian Lewis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will review the arrangements for election of additional members to the National Assembly. [61582]

  Mr. Michael
  No. The return of members for the Assembly's electoral regions will be made in accordance with the provisions of the Government of Wales Act 1998.

  Consultant Referral Waiting Times
  Mr. Walter
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement about waiting times for patients awaiting referral to a consultant. [61583]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  Latest published information shows that 93 per cent. of patients waiting for a first outpatient appointment were seen within six months, (79 per cent. within three months). In addition, 95 per cent. of patients waiting for inpatient/daycase treatment in hospital were seen within 12 months (78 per cent. within three months).

  Lobbyists
  Mr. Flynn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on his policy on the role of lobbyists in informing decisions taken by his Department. [61584]

  Mr. Michael
  Lobbyists play no role in decisions made by my Department.

  Territorial Army
  Mr. Laurence Robertson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what assessment he has made of the impact on local communities of the closure of nine Territorial Army centres in Wales. [61585]

  Mr. Hain
  Six Territorial Army Centres in Wales are to close of which two are not currently in use. Twenty two Territorial Army centres will remain in use: 17 in South Wales, 5 in North Wales, plus 3 centres are to be retained for cadets.

  The Ministry of Defence have listened to the responses which resulted from the consultative documents with the results that the current complement in Wales of 2,982 will be reduced by 435, a reduction of 14.6 per cent., the lowest of any UK region.

  NHS Trusts
  Mr. Win Griffiths
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on his proposals for NHS trusts. [61586]

  Mr. Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the NHS Trust proposals for Wales. [61587]

  Mr. Denzil Davies
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the reconfiguration of NHS trusts in Wales. [61588]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  I refer my hon. Friends to the answer to my hon. Friend the Member for the Vale of Glamorgan (Mr. Smith), 9 December 1998,Official Report, column 309.

  Local Government Finance
  Ms Lawrence
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what his proposals are for local government revenue spending and grant support in 1999–2000; and what his plans are for the following two years. [63603]

  Mr. Michael
  Following the Comprehensive Spending Review and extensive consultation on my spending priorities in Wales, I propose that total standard spending in 1999–2000 should be £3,243 million, an increase of £143 million or 4.6 per cent. on the comparable figure for 1998–99.

  This is a good settlement for local government and for Wales as a whole. It is not just about money but about partnership. It paves the way for the co-operation I have offered to the leaders of local authorities which is aimed at improving services and extending opportunity everywhere in Wales. It also sets the scene for a strong partnership between the National Assembly for Wales and local government which I believe is essential for the success of both.

  The increase includes an additional £70 million revenue spending for education and extra provision so that local authorities can:
  improve children's services in line with the Government's response to the report by Sir William Utting;
  provide at least half price bus transport for pensioners from April 1999; and
  implement a new regime to deal with contaminated land with effect from 1 July 1999.

  I announced details of the settlement for police authorities on 2 December 1998.

  I propose to set aggregate external finance at £2,827 million, of which I plan to make available £1,914 million in revenue support grant and council tax reduction scheme grant, £656 million in redistributed business rates and £257 million for specific grants.

  I propose that the non-domestic rate poundage for Wales should rise by 3.2 per cent. in line with the Retail Prices Index for the 12 months to September 1998, giving a rate of 44.3p in the pound for 1999–2000.

  There will be a scheme to limit council tax increases; it will be similar to the targeted scheme that operated for 1998–99 and I will announce further details shortly.

  I also intend that there should be new arrangements for council tax benefit subsidy, to prevent the full cost of excessive council tax increases being passed onto the national tax payer in the form of higher subsidy payments. The arrangements will apply to county and county borough councils only in 1999–2000, and the National Assembly for Wales will be able to extend them to police authorities the following year.

  I expect local authorities to budget prudently, and I am prepared to use my capping powers if they decide to make excessive increases in council tax.

  Looking ahead to the following two years my plans provide for total standard spending and aggregate external
  230
  finance (net of specific grants) to be as reflected in the table. The National Assembly will take the final decisions. My proposals for 1999–2000, on the same net basis, are also given for comparative purposes:

  1999–2000

  2000–01

  2001–02

  Net TSS (£ million)

  2,986

  3,128

  3,279

  Of which Net AEF (£ million)

  2,570

  2,671

  2,778

  Percentage increase in net TSS

  5.1

  4.8

  4.8

  Real terms percentage increase in net TSS

  2.5

  2.2

  2.3

  Further information on the proposed settlement, including details for individual authorities and the detailed arrangements for council tax benefit subsidy, will be announced shortly. I will also be discussing with the Welsh Local Government Association a range of performance measures linked to this announcement.

  My Department has written today to the Welsh Local Government Association and all local authorities in Wales to initiate a consultation on my proposals for next year's settlement. Copies of the consultation letter will be placed in the Library of the House.

  Mr. Livsey
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how much money was allocated in the 1998–99 standard spending assessment to each local authority in Wales to repay capital debt. [62652]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  There are no separately identifiable allocations within standard spending assessments for repayment of debt. The amounts in respect of overall capital charges included in the 1998–99 standard spending assessments are given in the following table.

  £000

  Isle of Anglesey

  6,772

  Gwynedd

  10,608

  Conwy

  8,659

  Denbighshire

  9,015

  Flintshire

  12,691

  Wrexham

  9,739

  Powys

  12,603

  Ceredigion

  5,696

  Pembrokeshire

  10,800

  Carmarthenshire

  14,353

  Swansea

  22,312

  Neath Port Talbot

  12,529

  Bridgend

  10,882

  The Vale of Glamorgan

  9,011

  Rhondda, Cynon, Taff

  17,065

  Merthyr Tydfil

  5,019

  Caerphilly

  12,061

  Blaenau Gwent

  7,606

  Torfaen

  8,982

  Monmouthshire

  5,469

  Newport

  13,204

  Cardiff

  24,236

  Dyfed-Powys Police

  649

  Gwent Police

  821

  North Wales Police

  678

  South Wales Police

  2,412

  Total Unitary Authorities

  249,311

  Total Police Authorities

  4,560

  Total Wales

  253,871

  231
  Capital charges cover repayment of debt, interest payments on outstanding debt, non-operational leasing charges, and for the police authorities capital expenditure charged to the revenue account. The figures are net of capital financing grants.

  Mr. Livsey
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what measures his Department has taken to encourage local authorities in Wales to repay debt. [62653]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  Local authorities' new borrowing is regulated by the issue of credit approvals in accordance with Government policy. Authorities have a statutory duty to make provision to meet their existing debts. It is for them to decide whether it would be prudent to repay any loan before they are contractually required to do so.

  National Assembly
  Mr. Dafis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what assumptions he has made about the workload of the National Assembly for Wales up to autumn 1999 in planning his work in 1999. [62365]

  Mr. Michael
  My officials are identifying the business the Assembly will need to address in its early days, based on the emerging standing orders, the draft Transfer of Functions Order, the work currently in hand in the Welsh Office and the Government's programme of legislation. I shall share this forward look with the leaders of the political parties in Wales so that we can work towards a common understanding of the likely early demands on the Assembly's time.

  Ethnic Minorities
  Mr. Swayne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what action he is taking in response to the report of the Commission for Racial Equality about the treatment of ethnic minority people in Wales. [62528]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  A Survey of current Secondary Health Care Practice was prepared by the NHS Wales Equality Unit in partnership with the Commission for Racial Equality. I attended the launch of the report on 30 November 1998 and gave the Department's support to its recommendation that health care should be accessible, fair and without disadvantage. Welsh Office officials will be meeting the Commission for Racial Equality to consider the issues further.

  Welsh Development Agency
  Mr. Gareth Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the management of the Welsh Development Agency following the recent resignations of senior staff. [62363]

  Mr. Hain
  The WDA expects some turnover of its staff in the normal course of events and this always presents an opportunity to strengthen the organisation. I am confident that the management team in place will be able to deliver the challenging agenda which Government have set.

  Millennium Compliance
  Mr. Dafis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what assessment he has made of the adequacy of action being taken within the Welsh Office to deal with the problem of the millennium bug. [63094]

  Mr. Michael
  In common with all Departments the Welsh Office completes a Quarterly Return to the Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency on the progress towards achieving Millennium compliance of it's internal systems and the general state of readiness of the wider public sector in Wales.

  These returns are published on the Internet and copies are placed in the Library of the House. The last returns were published on 2 December.

  I am currently satisfied with my Departments progress towards achieving Millennium date change compliance but will keep that progress under review.

  Nurses
  Mr. Barry Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what measures he proposes to take to improve morale amongst nurses. [62697]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  The Department is preparing a Strategic Framework for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting in Wales following consultation with the health service. It will set out the vital contribution that the profession makes to the health service.

  As an integral part of the Human Resource Strategy for Wales we will set the NHS targets to improve its record as an employer which will mean improving the quality of life of staff and their access to continuing professional development.

  The Government are committed to a fair and affordable pay settlement which will have a positive impact on the nursing profession. The Nurses Pay Review Body is currently considering evidence from the trade unions, Health Departments and employers and will make recommendations on pay levels to take effect on 1 April 1999. The Government will make an announcement early in the new year.

  Steel Imports
  Mr. Barry Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the Chairman of British Steel plc concerning imports of steel products from the Far East; and if he will make a statement. [62699]

  Mr. Hain
  None, but the Welsh Office maintains close contact with British Steel and my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, met the Chairman of British Steel plc on 17 November to discuss this and a range of other issues affecting the steel industry.

  The Government consistently press for strict rules contained in the Steel Aid Code to be applied rigorously by Member States and for stringent monitoring and enforcement by the Commission. This has contributed to a climate in which illegal state aids have declined significantly in importance as a problem for the UK steel industry.
  233
  Where any cases give rise to concern, the Government are always willing to examine any evidence put forward, and to consider what action might be appropriate.

  Direct Labour Departments
  Mr. Swayne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what estimate he has made of the losses that will be made by local authority direct labour departments in this financial year. [62681]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  I have made no such estimate because local authorities are not due to submit reports for this financial year until 31 October 1999. However, I expect all authorities to do everything possible to achieve the specified financial objective for the work which they carry out.

  I have asked those authorities whose direct service organisations made losses for the 1997–98 financial year to report to me on what action they are taking to return their organisations to profit. I shall consider whether any further action is necessary when I have received these reports.

EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT

  Performance League Tables
  Mr. Chaytor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what research he has commissioned on value-added models of performance league tables. [62583]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  Following research sponsored by the School Curriculum and Assessment Authority, and a consultation by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, we have conducted a value added pilot study, the results of which were published as a supplement to the secondary school tables on 1 December. The study involved some 200 schools and investigated a variety of options for presenting value added measures from Key Stage 3 to GCSE/GNVQ, based on information about individual pupil performance. A copy has been placed in the Library.

  Mr. Chaytor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to publish league tables weighted according to pupil performance at Key Stage Two. [62582]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  We aim to publish measures of value added by secondary schools from Key Stage 2 to the end of compulsory schooling from 2003, when suitable data for matching pupils' achievements over time are expected to become available.

  Further Education
  Mr. Willis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what is the total amount the further education sector is expected to raise in efficiency savings in(a) 1998–99 and (b) 1999–2000; and if these sums are included in the announced increases in resources allocated to further education in each of those years. [62548]

  Mr. Mudie
  The efficiency savings expected of the Further Education sector are equivalent to £135 million in financial year 1998–99 and £35 million in financial year 234
  1999–2000. The increased funding that has been allocated to Further Education in each of these years does not include these amounts but does assume that these efficiency savings will be realised.

  Mr. Willis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if his figures for the additional students expected in the further education sector by 2002 will be calculated on the basis of student enrolments. [62547]

  Mr. Mudie
  The additional students expected in the further education sector by 2002 are calculated on the basis of the number of students in Further Education colleges.

  Class Sizes
  Mr. Willis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if infant schools which continue to operate admission limits in excess of 30 or multiples of 30 will receive additional resources to meet the class-size pledge. [62608]

  Ms Estelle Morris
  Whether individual schools receive additional resources to meet the class size pledge will depend on the implementation plan submitted by their local education authority and the costings to support that plan, as approved by the Secretary of State. A school that continues to operate admission limits in excess of 30 or multiples of 30 may receive additional resources to meet the class size pledge if it is judged reasonable for it to continue to operate those limits in the context of the authority's plan, taking into account the circumstances of the school.

  Mr. Willis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what steps he has taken to ensure the education in subsequent years of an exempted pupil admitted as a 31st child consistent with the class size requirements of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. [62606]

  Ms Estelle Morris
  An excepted pupil falling within paragraphs 2 to 5 of the Schedule in the Education (Infant Class Sizes)(England) Regulations 1998 (S.I. 1998/1973) will cease to be treated as such a pupil after the end of the school year in which he/she is admitted to the school. This does not apply to an excepted pupil falling within paragraphs 6 and 7 of that Schedule because that exception permits a pupil with special educational needs, normally educated in a special school or a special unit attached to a mainstream school, to gain the benefits of being able to join in a mainstream class for some lessons.

  Every governing body and local education authority will be under a legal duty to comply with class size legislation. We will be monitoring closely all aspects of that legislation, including the operation of the limit.

  Mr. Willis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if, where an exempted pupil is admitted to an infant class in excess of 30, additional resources will be made available from his Department to meet the class size pledge in subsequent years. [62607]

  Ms Estelle Morris
  We will be providing sufficient resources to enable all local authorities to meet the class size pledge. We intend to make resources available to deal with contingencies which arise when, exceptionally, a child is lawfully admitted to a school, taking an infant
  235
  class above 30 pupils. Whether an authority will require additional resources to deal with a case of that kind will clearly depend on the particular circumstances of the case.

  Higher Education (Fees)
  Mr. Willis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what advice his Department has issued to Higher Education institutions regarding the collection of fees from(a) EU and (b) UK students. [62603]

  Mr. Mudie
  Our advice did not differentiate between UK and non-UK EU students. My Department wrote to universities and colleges on 7 October 1998 in response to reports that some institutions were pressing for payment of the full £1,000 from students still awaiting an awards letter. It reiterated the advice contained in an earlier letter from the Department of 18 November 1997 about the importance of institutions undertaking the collection of the fee sensitively and flexibly in the early months of a degree course, taking account of the particular circumstances of individual students. It went on to advise that, in the case of students still awaiting an awards letter, and if instalment or other arrangements were offered, these should be put into effect only when the awards letter became available, so that payments were based on actual amounts due and students not required to make any contribution were not disadvantaged.

  Dental Students
  Mrs. Brinton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment (1) what studies his Department has(a) commissioned and (b) evaluated on (i) the effect of debt among dental students and (ii) the impact of this on their willingness to work in the NHS; [62315]

  (2) what assessment he has made of the British Dental Association's survey of dental students' debt. [62313]

  Mr. Mudie
  The Department has not commissioned any research on the effect of debt on dental students but, we have recently received a summary of the survey by the British Dental Association which we shall consider carefully.

  Mrs. Brinton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will provide extra help for dental students who are heavily in debt. [62314]

  Mr. Mudie
  Dental and other students who entered higher education before 1998–99 and who take out five or more loans will repay these loans over a period of seven years compared with five years for other borrowers. They will not have to start repaying their student loans until their income reaches the earnings related threshold which for 1998–99 is set at £17,784 per annum.

  From 1998–99 dental students in the first four years of their course will have access to the same loan, grant and fees support as all other new entrants, but they will receive help in years five and beyond through NHS bursaries and the Department of Health will meet their tuition fees. After graduation, they will benefit from the fairer repayment system which we are introducing, which links repayments directly to graduates income. No repayments are made until their income reaches a threshold, initially set at £10,000, and thereafter they are calculated as a percentage of income above that level.
  236
  This will ensure that dental students, and others with larger loans to repay will have affordable repayments linked directly to their earnings.

  PE Teachers (Gloucestershire)
  Mr. Nigel Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many secondary school physical education teachers have been employed by local education authority and grant maintained schools in Gloucestershire since 1979. [62973]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  The information is not available.

  School Performance Bonus Scheme
  Mr. Hope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment, pursuant to his oral statement of 3 December 1998,Official Report, columns 1041–45, if he will make a statement on the intended scope of the school performance bonus scheme. [63334]

  Mr. Blunkett
  Initial plans are that the School Performance Awards Scheme will cover up to a third of schools. Over time we would expect many more schools to be able to benefit. All payments would be allocated on the basis of merit. I will consult further on the technical document planned for publication in the New Year.

  Teachers (Supergrades)
  Mr. Waterson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment he has made of the extent to which the recently announced supergrades for teachers will be filled by existing teachers. [62908]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  All Advanced Skills Teacher posts will be filled by serving teachers, because candidates need to be assessed in their present teaching posts. Advanced Skills Teacher posts may be filled by internal candidates, or by external candidates further to advertisement of posts. Both routes are lawful, although my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State would prefer Advanced Skills Teacher posts to be advertised in order to maximise the field of candidates.

  Literacy and Numeracy
  Mr. Sawford
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what additional funding is available to schools to support the literacy and numeracy hours. [62347]

  Ms Estelle Morris
  We are providing significant investment to support the implementation of the National Literacy and Numeracy Strategies in primary schools. This year we have given £65 million to schools to purchase books for reading. On 7 December we announced an additional £54 million to support our drive to raise literacy standards in primary schools, a similar amount will be made available for schools to implement the numeracy hour in September 1999.

  Dyslexia
  Mr. Kidney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what evaluation he has made of the studies referred to in the Green Paper, "Excellence for all Children: Meeting Special Educational Needs", by the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre and the Manchester
  237
  Metropolitan University relating to teaching methods for tackling dyslexia; and if he intends to publish the evaluations. [62312]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  The results of the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Centre research project, which has just been completed, will be published in the Department's research report series in February 1999. The results from the Manchester Metropolitan University research project are being published by the University. As a result of their research the Manchester Metropolitan University has been contracted to produce a video, teacher's handbook and other materials to support the teaching of pupils with mild to moderate literacy difficulties in mainstream schools. A copy of the video and materials will be sent to the Literacy Consultant(s) in each Local Education Authority. Summaries of both research projects will be in the Department's research brief series which appears on the Internet and Intranet.

  Further and Higher Education
  Mr. Boswell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will give details of the Government's plans to monitor the impact of the new funding system on recruitment to higher education institutions of various categories of student, including mature students. [61932]

  Mr. Mudie
  Initial evidence shows that there is a small increase in the number of school and college leavers accepted for higher education, and that there is almost no change in the social composition of accepted applicants.

  My Department has in place a programme of evaluation work to assess the impact of the new funding arrangements on participation in higher education by different types of student, examining for instance the social background, ethnic group, disability, age and gender of students. This work will draw on data produced by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) and subsequently in the first half of next year by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). In addition we are commissioning an update of the Student Income and Expenditure Survey which will provide information about the impact of the new arrangements on student finances.

  The key results of our monitoring and research will be published and available to Parliament.

  Social Affairs Council
  Mr. Rammell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what was the outcome of the Social Affairs Council held in Brussels on 1 and 2 December; and if he will make a statement. [62704]

  Mr. Andrew Smith
  I attended the first session of the Social Affairs Council and I attended the joint meeting of Social Affairs Ministers and Economic and Finance Ministers, both on 1 December 1998. My hon. Friend the Minister of State at the Department of Trade and Industry and I attended the second session of the Social Affairs Council on 2 December.

  The first session of the Social Affairs Council discussed and agreed proposals for revisions to the Employment Guidelines for 1999 and the Joint Report on Implementation of the 1998 Guidelines. The joint meeting
  238
  of Social Affairs Ministers and Economic and Finance Ministers adopted the Employment Guidelines for 1999 and the Joint Report on Implementation of the 1998 Guidelines, and both will now be submitted to the Vienna European Council on 11–12 December to be endorsed. The joint meeting also heard a presentation from Sir Brian Unwin, Chairman of the European Investment Bank, on the progress in implementing the programme agreed at the Luxembourg Jobs Summit for increased lending by the Bank to promote employment.

  The second session of the Social Affairs Council on 2 December reached political agreement on a common position on the second amendment to the Carcinogens Directive and political agreement on a common position on a proposed Directive on Potentially Explosive Atmospheres.

  The Council reached political agreement on the amendment to Regulation 1408/71 (social security for migrant workers) to extend certain elements to students.

  The Council reached political agreement on the second reading of a Decision to encourage mobility between Member States for people in work-linked vocational training (Europass).

  The Council was unable to reach agreement on the Worker Participation Directive element of the European Company Statute package.

  The Council discussed a Presidency report on the follow up to the 1995 Beijing Women's Conference. The Council noted and endorsed the Commission's mid-term report on safety, hygiene and health at work. The Presidency reported on the November Social Dialogue Conference in Vienna. The Commission reported, without endorsement, on its three recent initiatives: on information and consultation of workers, where the social partners had failed to reach agreement; on a proposed extension of the Working Time Directive to excluded sectors; and on its Communication on work organisation.

  European Union (Promotional Literature)
  Mr. Laurence Robertson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how much money the European Union is spending in the current year on providing literature about the EU in schools in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement. [62414]

  Mr. Andrew Smith
  [holding answer 8 December 1998]: I understand that money from a number of sources may be used by the European Commission for this purpose. According to the Commission's Representation in the UK, I understand that, while the Commission can identify the cost of some specific publications intended for distribution to UK schools, it cannot provide a global figure.

  Special Educational Needs
  Ms Christine Russell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment when the 1997–98 annual report from the President of the SEN Tribunal will be published; and if he will make a statement. [63431]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  The report has been published today, and copies have been placed in the Library.
  239
  The Tribunal provides a valuable and independent mechanism for considering parents' appeals against decisions of local education authorities. It is of credit to all those working with the Tribunal—the President, the members, and the secretariat staff—that the Tribunal has maintained its targets for dealing with appeals, in spite of the increased volume of such appeals. The Tribunal has earned a much deserved reputation for fairness and impartiality and for ensuring that its hearings are as informal as possible.

AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FOOD

  Livestock (Assessment and Classification)
  Mr. Evans
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what criteria are used(a) to measure the performance of British livestock and (b) to classify carcases of livestock. [63140]

  Mr. Rooker
  For livestock animals, the performance criteria used are growth rate, feed efficiency and reproductive rate. For carcases, the performance criteria used are conformation, fat cover and the finished weight of the carcase.

  Pig Industry
  Mr. Sayeed
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans the Government have to give financial assistance to pig producers. [62321]

  Mr. Rooker
  The EU pigmeat regime is very light and contains no provision for direct aids to producers of the sort introduced for beef and sheep farmers. Paying these as a state aid would contravene European law. Moreover, we generally oppose state aid schemes in the pig sector because they can distort trade, interfere with the market and risk prolonging a crisis.

  The pig sector is benefiting from a number of market related measures which has been agreed within the EU and supported by the Government. These have been worth almost £100 million in market support across the EU this year. Measures include the re-introduction of refunds on exports of fresh and frozen carcases and cuts of pigmeat; two further increases in those refunds—including a 75 per cent. increase on exports to Russia; and the introduction of an aids to private storage scheme.

  The Government continue to fund strategic R&D of assistance to the pig industry to the tune of £2.5 million per annum. An increasing proportion of this spend is on joint projects with the industry, a clear sign that the work we are funding is of value.

  Mr. Sayeed
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the British pig industry; and what plans he has to assist pig farmers to increase their trade within the European Union. [62322]

  Mr. Rooker
  Like its counterparts in the rest of the EU, the British pig industry is going through a difficult time at present, with market prices well below the cost of production. The crisis is due mainly to over-production, because of an exaggerated producer response to the BSE crisis and to a reduction in supply due to outbreaks of classical swine fever (CSF) on mainland Europe,240
  principally in the Netherlands. This has led to a distorted version of the classic pig cycle, with the position being exacerbated by the strong pound, high production in the USA and a reduction in world demand, e.g. in Russia and the Far East.

  The Meat and Livestock Commission (MLC) and Food from Britain have helped the British pig industry to establish a healthy export trade in pork and pork products with other EU countries. In 1997, over 200,000 tonnes were exported to the EU (up some 20 per cent. on 1996) and this figure is likely to be exceeded in 1998.

  For their part, Government Ministers have directed their efforts at raising the profile of British pigmeat in the domestic market, particularly the catering market. We have spearheaded a campaign aimed at the catering and food service sector with the objective of increasing the use of pigmeat products in a sector which takes 30 per cent. of the pigmeat market.

  In addition, the major retailers have given voluntary undertakings that all their own-label fresh pork, bacon, ham, sausages and pork pies will come from stall and tether and MBM free systems. In addition, they will not sell imported fresh pork processed or packaged in the UK, under a British label. These are major advances which will be welcomed by the British pig industry.

  Bovine Tuberculosis
  Mr. Waterson
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of the degree of certainty about the link between the incidence of tuberculosis in cattle and the presence locally of badgers; and if he will make a statement. [62909]

  Mr. Rooker
  The Krebs report concluded that the sum of evidence strongly supports the view that in Britain badgers are a significant source of TB infection in cattle.

  Aromatherapy Oils
  Jackie Ballard
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if aromatherapy oils are classified as agricultural products. [63048]

  Mr. Rooker
  Aromatherapy oils would not normally be classified as agricultural products but if the hon. Member writes to me with specific details about the products she is concerned with I will try to provide a more definitive answer.

  Abattoirs
  Mrs. Fiona Jones
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to introduce maximum line speeds in abattoirs. [62784]

  Mr. Rooker
  GB meat hygiene legislation provides the Meat Hygiene Service with powers to require the slowing of line speeds in individual abattoirs where, in the opinion of the Official Veterinary Surgeon, line speeds are such as to jeopardise the satisfactory inspection or the hygienic production of meat. I have no plans, however, for the blanket introduction of maximum line speeds in licensed abattoirs.

  Calf Processing Scheme
  Mr. Evans
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the proposed restoration of grant aid for the calf processing scheme. [63128]

  Mr. Rooker
  I refer the hon. Member to the statement given by my right hon. Friend the Minister to the House on 16 November 1998,Official Report, columns 624–26. The new rate of aid of £55.85 per calf came into force on 7 December.

  Milk Prices
  Mr. Evans
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to ensure that reductions in prices paid to milk producers are passed on to milk consumers. [63127]

  Mr. Rooker
  Pricing decisions at retail level in respect of produce, including milk, are matters for the commercial judgment of the various food retail companies, which operate in a fiercely competitive market. However, it must be remembered that a significant part of the final price of food to the consumer is accounted for by processing,242
  distribution and marketing costs. So the proportional impact of raw material price changes would be expected to be much reduced at retail level.

  Fallen Stock (Disposal)
  Mr. Evans
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects to make an announcement of future arrangements for the disposal of fallen stock. [63139]

  Mr. Rooker
  The Government consider that it is the responsibility of the livestock industry to arrange for the disposal of its waste, including fallen stock.

  BSE Inquiry
  Mr. Hayes
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what estimate he has made of the total cost of the current BSE inquiry; and how many staff have been allocated to it. [62950]

  Mr. Rooker
  [holding answer 7 December 1998]: The estimated direct cost of the BSE Inquiry is £10 million, excluding departmental costs and legal support for departmental witnesses. The number of staff allocated to the Inquiry has fluctuated according to need; it currently stands at 85.

  Civil and Political Rights
  Civil and Political Rights
  Senator Pinochet: Spanish Extradition Request
  Senator Pinochet: Spanish Extradition Request
  VAT: Transitional Arrangements
  VAT: Transitional Arrangements
  EU Council Recommendation 11393/97
  EU Council Recommendation 11393/97
  GPs and Secondary Health Services in Scotland
  GPs and Secondary Health Services in Scotland
  Arms Sales to Algeria
  Arms Sales to Algeria
  Medicines Control and Medical Devices Agencies
  Medicines Control and Medical Devices Agencies
  Miners' Respiratory Diseases
  Miners' Respiratory Diseases
  Victims of Nazi Persecution: Return of Assets
  Victims of Nazi Persecution: Return of Assets
  Transport Safety
  Transport Safety
  Driving Test: Revision
  Driving Test: Revision
  Regional Eurostar Services: Review
  Regional Eurostar Services: Review
  Channel Tunnel to Glasgow: Railtrack Submission
  Channel Tunnel to Glasgow: Railtrack Submission