§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, pursuant to his answer of 22 February 1999,Official Report, column 143, for what reasons he did not supply an estimate for spending on special advisers in 1996–97; if he will provide estimates of total spending on special advisers for (a) 1996–97, (b) 1997–98, and (c) 1998–99; and if he will make a statement. [74165]
§ Mr. Dewar[holding answer 5 March 1999]: I refer the hon. Member to my answer of 22 February 1999, Official Report, column 143. Details of costs relating to the Special Advisers in 1996–97 could be supplied only at disproportionate cost.