HC Deb 21 July 1999 vol 335 cc522-3W
Mr. Campbell-Savours

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what guidance has been provided to members of development agencies as to circumstances in which conflict of interest might exist and the action which should be taken when such guidance is ignored. [91465]

Mr. Meale

The letters of appointment sent to members of the North West Development Agency provided guidance on potential conflicts of interest and the responsibility to declare any such interests.

The Codes of Conduct, which have been drawn up by the agencies in accordance with guidance produced by the Cabinet Office, cover the issue of members' interests. Agencies are required to maintain a Register of Interest of their members. Board members have attended a training course on their roles and responsibilities as members of non-departmental public bodies. The issues of conflicts of interest and propriety were among the issues covered.