HC Deb 06 May 1998 vol 311 cc430-1W
13. Ann Clwyd

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the planned time scale for implementing his Freedom of Information proposals. [39802]

Dr. David Clark

It is our hope to publish a draft Bill before the summer, which will continue the consultation process started with the White PaperYour Right to Know. In the light of comments on this, a Bill will be introduced into Parliament as soon as the legislative timetable permits.

16. Mr. Baker

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster in what ways his proposals for freedom of information will improve public accountability of departmental political advisers. [39805]

Dr. David Clark

Openness and access to information are the key to public accountability. This Government were the first to make clear in a public document the roles and responsibilities of Special Advisers. A copy of this document—the Model Contract for Special Advisers—is in the Library of the House. Departmental political advisers are covered by our proposals for opening up the work of Government through a Freedom of Information Act.

19. Mr. Connarty

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what recent discussions he has had on his freedom of information proposals. [39809]

23. Dr. Tony Wright

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what recent discussions he has had on the White Paper on freedom of information. [39813]

Dr. David Clark

Freedom of Information was among the topics I discussed at recent meetings with the General Secretaries of the Council for Civil Service Unions on Wednesday 25 March, and Chris Miles, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Australian Prime Minister, on Wednesday 22 April.

24. Mr. Paterson

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the representations he has received on the freedom of information White Paper. [39814]

Dr. David Clark

I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Middlesborough, South and Cleveland, East (Mr. Kumar) on 1 April 1998,Official Report, column 588.