HC Deb 16 November 1998 vol 319 cc370-1W
Mr. Bercow

To ask the Prime Minister if he will take steps to ensure that, in future official publications informing the public about the European Union, lists of recommended sources for further contact include organisations opposed to closer union; and if he will list the criteria for inclusion there. [59810]

The Prime Minister

There are no set criteria concerning contact lists in UK Government publications about the EU. Where lists are given, they should normally include contact points for officials in Government Departments who can provide practical assistance. The lists should also, where appropriate, include relevant outside organisations.

Mr. Bercow

To ask the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the conclusions of the March meeting of Government press officers on better information in the EU; if he will list the delegates; and if he will place the (i) agenda and (ii) minutes of that meeting in the Library. [59806]

The Prime Minister

The meeting held on 27 March 1998 was an informal seminar to discuss the provision of information abut the EU. There were no minutes and the meeting did not draw conclusions. The General Affairs Council on 29 June, however, adopted Conclusions reflecting discussions at the meeting and subsequent follow-up by the Council. I have placed a copy of the programme, the objectives of the seminar, and a list of participants in the Libraries of both Houses.