Written Answers of 10 May 1999

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

  Sudan
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what data she has collated on the take-up of children's vaccination in Southern Sudan. [83088]

  Clare Short
  United Nations Children's Fund UNICEF confirm that during two rounds of National Immunisation Days (NIDs) in Sudan in February and March this year, over one million children in Southern Sudan were vaccinated against polio. The next Sudan NIDs are planned to take place in February and March 2000.

  Poverty Elimination Programmes
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on her Department's plans to link debt relief with poverty elimination programmes. [83297]

  Clare Short
  We are working to influence the World Bank and the IMF during the comprehensive review of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative to strengthen the linkage between debt relief and poverty eradication. In particular we are stressing the need for HIPC to deliver a greater reduction in the level of service payments in the early years to enable governments to invest sufficient resources in anti-poverty programmes such as health and education and so achieve the International Development Goals.

  Debt Relief
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development (1) what discussions were held at the recent IMF/World Bank meeting in Washington on debt relief; and if she will make a statement; [83298]

  (2) if she will make a statement on the HIPC Initiative following the IMF/World Bank spring meetings. [83304]

  Clare Short
  The Chancellor of the Exchequer and I participated in discussing the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative at the Interim Committee meeting of the IMF and at the Development Committee of the World Bank in Washington at the end of April. At both meetings, Ministers gave strong support to providing more debt relief to countries which are committed to eradicating poverty. In discussions on the fundamental review of the HIPC initiative, the Chancellor and I emphasised the need for change, in order that the initiative provides countries with a permanent exit from their debt problems, as it was intended to do. We also stressed the importance of debt relief being provided in 2
  such a way that it releases resources for governments to invest in key sectors to enable them to achieve the International Development Goals. Phase 2 of the HIPC review will consider how to strengthen this link between debt relief and poverty elimination.

  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what provision will be included in the Government's proposed debt relief framework for debt(a) service and (b) stock reduction. [83300]

  Clare Short
  The Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative focuses on reducing the stock of debt, with countries receiving one large cut in their debt which takes effect after many years. We are pressing the international community to agree not only to provide more debt relief to countries who are implementing demonstrably pro-poor policies, but to provide it in a way that enables governments to increase spending on anti-poverty programmes. This points to revising the Initiative so that it takes more account of what governments can afford to pay from their budgets, and delivers greater reductions in debt service paid, especially in the early years.

  Reconstruction (Balkans)
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment she has made of the long-term reconstruction needs of(a) Albania, (b) Montenegro and (c) Macedonia. [83299]

  Clare Short
  We are working with the European Commission, EU Member States and International Financial Institutions to determine the longer term needs of Albania, Macedonia and Montenegro. As the Donors Conference on Macedonia on 5 May indicated, the international community is prepared to provide considerable support based on real needs. Bilaterally we plan to focus on know how and technical support to enable the Governments of the region to increase their capacity to respond to the crisis and absorb international assistance.

  IMF
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what assessment her Department has made of the IMF's suitability as the lead organisation in helping poor countries meet the 2015 international development targets. [83301]

  Clare Short
  Multilateral organisations including the IMF have a key role to play in helping countries to meet the international development targets. Following last year's review of the IMF's Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility, it was agreed that the IMF should take more account of the social impact of their programmes, the quality of government expenditure, and should protect budgets in high priority areas such as health and education. We are encouraging the IMF to work more closely with the World Bank to ensure that, in designing structural adjustment programmes, they take account of the impact on the poor. Following proposals put forward by the UK, the World Bank is developing principles of good practice in social policy, in consultation with the IMF. We envisage that these principles will be
  3
  drawn upon by the World Bank and the IMF in the design of programmes. We continually emphasise the need for the IMF to build support for reforms which lead to economic growth which benefit the poor programmes, through discussion and consultation with civil society.

  Ethiopia and Eritrea
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement about the current humanitarian situation in Ethiopia and Eritrea. [83302]

  Clare Short
  The UN estimate that there are 3,250,000 people in need of humanitarian relief in Ethiopia. 397,000 of whom have been displaced due to the border conflict. In Eritrea 540,000 people need support with 290,000 displaced by the conflict. Main relief requirements are food, shelter, clothing, household items, health care, water and sanitation. Since January 1998 Britain has provided £5.2 million (including our contribution to EU actions) for emergency food and other support to Ethiopia and Eritrea.

  Democratic Republic of Congo
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement about the current humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. [83303]

  Clare Short
  We are continuing to press all parties to the conflict to agree a cease-fire and to reach a negotiated settlement. The signing in April of the Sirte agreement between the DRC, Uganda, Libya, Chad and Eritrea was a welcome step towards a cessation of hostilities, as was the communique issued on 5 May by the leaders of Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda re-affirming their commitment to a peaceful settlement of the conflict.

  Date

  Location

  DETR Minister

  US Counterpart

  13 February 1998

  London

  John Prescott

  Stu Eizenstat (Under Secretary of State for Economic, Business and Agricultural Affairs)

  16 February 1998

  London

  Gavin Strang

  Mortimer Downey (Deputy Secretary, US Department of Transportation)

  4 April 1998

  Leeds Castle

  John Prescott Michael Meacher

  Carol Browner (Administrator at the US Environmental Protection Agency)

  28 April 1998

  Washington

  John Prescott

  Rodney Slater (Secretary of Transportation)

  Norwich Hospital
  Dr. Gibson
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to ensure(a) public transport access and (b) access off the southern bypass to the new hospital in Norwich from the city centre. [82688]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  Public transport access to the new Norfolk and Norwich Hospital at Colney is a matter for Norfolk County Council as the local transport authority, the Hospital trust, who have entered into an agreement with the County Council to provide a high quality bus service for the new site, and the commercial operators.
  4
  Fighting in the country is resulting in continued flows of refugees into neighbouring countries. The conflict and movement of those displaced continues to prevent humanitarian agencies from accessing many of those in need.

  The UK is ready to respond to appeals from UN agencies and NGOs. We have so far this year provided over £450,000 bilaterally through humanitarian agencies to support refugee and displaced populations, and other vulnerable groups.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for International Development how many applications for information she received under the Open Government: Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83117]

  Clare Short
  In the Parliamentary session October 1997 to July 1998 I received and granted four applications for information under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

ENVIRONMENT, TRANSPORT AND THE REGIONS

  Ministerial Meetings (US)
  Mr. Matthew Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, pursuant to his answer on 26 March 1999,Official Report, column 417, how many times Ministers in his Department met their counterparts in the US Government between 1 January 1998 and 1 June 1998; and if he will list the dates and locations of each meeting, the Ministers involved on each occasion and the name of the US counterpart at each meeting. [82227]

  Mr. Prescott
  The information for DETR is as follows:

  My noble Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State has asked the Highways Agency to look again at access to the hospital. The Highways Agency is considering the matter. A decision will be taken as quickly as possible.

  Regional Development Agencies
  Mr. Harvey
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many staff transferred to each regional development area from(a) English Partnerships, (b) the Rural Development Commission, (c) Government offices, (d) regional development organisations and (e) other bodies. [82922]
  5
  Mr. Meale
  The table shows the number of staff transferring to each regional development agency on 1 April 1999. The figures exclude temporary staff and

  Number of staff transferring to RDAs on 1 April 1999 by source organisation

  Region development agency

  English partnerships

  Rural development commission

  Government offices

  Regional development organisations

  Advantage West Midlands

  26

  7

  30

  57

  0

  East of England

  9

  15

  13

  0

  0

  East Midlands

  35

  11

  13

  29

  0

  North East

  85

  9

  27

  91

  0

  North West

  83

  8

  20

  44

  0

  South East of England

  16

  9

  15

  0

  0

  South West of England

  44

  23

  13

  44

  5

  Yorkshire Forward

  60

  11

  33

  63

  0

  Mr. Harvey
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what staff with environmental expertise have been recruited by each regional development agency. [82923]

  Mr. Meale
  Staff transferring from English Partnerships, the Rural Development Commission and Government Offices to take forward transferring functions, will have, or will have access to, any necessary environmental expertise to carry out the work. RDAs have been recruiting for a wide range of posts, including strategy development and corporate functions. Where environmental expertise is relevant to the post this will have been a consideration in the advertisement and selection process. RDAs will also be establishing links with a range of organisations, some of which will be able to provide advice on environmental issues. However, separate records are not kept on the environmental expertise of individual staff in the RDAs.

  Refrigerants (Emissions)
  Mr. Hoyle
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) what assessment he made of whether the author of the report, "UK Emission of HFCs, PFCs and SF6 and Potential Emission Reduction Options", had been involved in lobbying on behalf of(a) the refrigeration industry and (b) the manufacturers of refrigerants referred to in the report; and if he will make a statement; [82928]

  (2) what action he plans to take as a consequence of the report commissioned by his Department, "UK Emissions of HFCs, PFCs and SF6 and Potential Emission Reduction Options"; [82927]

  (3) what representations he has received concerning the independence of his advisers on climate change issues, with particular reference to the global warming impact of different refrigerants. [82926]

  Mr. Meale
  We have received representations concerning the consultants who have prepared for my Department a report which updated annual UK emissions data for HFCs, PFCs and SF6, provided emission projections to 2020 and assessed the costs and benefits of options to reduce future emissions. One of the representations included a detailed list of comments on the report, and a detailed reply, responding in full to each of the points raised, has been made.
  6
  vacant posts which also transferred. Figures for RDAs exclude overseas staff.

  The consultants were chosen on their technical merits and we see no reason to question the objectivity of the report. The preparation of the report included wide consultation with industry and was overseen by an interdepartmental steering committee.

  The Government intend to develop a balanced and equitable strategy across all sectors, to meet the UK's climate change targets. The climate change consultation paper, which we published last October, set out a range of policy options that could be used to meet these targets. We are now developing a draft UK climate change programme for publication later this year. This will be informed by the responses to the consultation paper and other relevant information, including the above report and any representations concerning it.

  Metered Dose Inhalers
  Mr. Reed
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what progress he has made in phasing out the chlorofluorocarbon exemption on metered dose inhalers. [83172]

  Mr. Meale
  The Montreal Protocol allows chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) to continue to be produced for use in the manufacture of metered dose inhalers (MDIs). This essential use exemption will continue to be provided only until an adequate range of non CFC alternatives is on the market, which in the European Union is likely to occur within the next two to five years.

  The Montreal Protocol also required Parties to prepare a national or regional strategy by 31 January 1999, which would ensure a smooth and efficient transition from CFC MDIs to non CFC MDIs whilst protecting the health and safety of patients.

  As the European Community is a Party to the Protocol, the European Commission prepared an EU wide transition strategy in consultation with member states, which was published by the Commission at the end of October 1998. The EU strategy sets out the criteria which will be used to determine when the essential use criteria for MDIs will be withdrawn in the EU. A number of non CFC MDIs are now available in the UK, and we anticipate that it should be possible to complete the transition for most types of MDI in the next three years.

  To complement the EU strategy, my Department is currently consulting stakeholders and interested parties on a draft UK strategy which will manage the transition

  7
  process within the UK. The consultation ends on 31 May 1999 and we aim to publish the final strategy later in the year.

  Mr. Reed
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what estimate he has made of the annual volume of chlorofluorocarbons released into the atmosphere through the use of metered dose inhalers in the UK in 1997 and 1998. [83173]

  Mr. Meale
  Based on data supplied by the European Commission, my Department estimates that the volume of chlorofluorocarbons used by manufacturers of metered dose inhalers in the United Kingdom was 2,208 tonnes in 1997 and 2,109 tonnes in 1998. About 40 per cent. of these metered dose inhalers will be used in the United Kingdom, the remainder being exported to other European Union countries and elsewhere. It is assumed that all the chlorofluorocarbons used in the manufacture of metered dose inhalers will eventually be emitted to atmosphere.

  Local Authority Housing
  Mr. Cox
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what recent discussions he has had with London borough councils on the number of empty housing units in their authorities. [83333]

  Mr. Raynsford
  As part of the annual Housing Investment Programme determination, officials from the Government Office for London regularly discuss with all London boroughs many aspects of their housing strategies and their performance as housing authorities. These discussions include the boroughs' enabling role in bringing empty properties back into use and their private sector renewal strategies to tackle empty properties in the private sector.

  The Government fully support the work of the Empty Homes Agency and the London Empty Property Forum, which are both playing an important role in bringing empty homes back into use.

  Road Freight
  Mr. Baker
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what proportion of road freight in the United Kingdom originated outside the United Kingdom, in the latest year for which figures are available. [82882]

  Dr. Reid
  [holding answer 5 May 1999]: In 1997, an estimated 2.5 per cent. of all tonne-kilometres performed in Great Britain, for both domestic and international haulage, were performed by vehicles originating outside the United Kingdom. Virtually all of this foreign activity was accounted for by the British part of international journeys by foreign hauliers. Domestic journeys by foreign hauliers accounted for under 0.04 per cent. of the total Great Britain tonne-kilometres in 1997, which is the last year for which we have full figures. However, there is some anecdotal evidence that the foreign haulier activity within the UK has been increasing over the recent years. This is one of the issues we will be addressing through the Road Haulage Forum.

  Manchester Airport
  Mr. Blunt
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what were the main environmental safeguards agreed under section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as preconditions for granting planning permission for the second runway at Manchester airport. [83353]

  Mr. Raynsford
  Manchester airport entered into a number of legal agreements including such matters as landscape and nature conservation, noise controls, night flying, highways improvements, public transport and the relocation of listed buildings.

  Domestic Violence
  Mr. Cohen
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when research into accommodation and support services available to households experiencing domestic violence is expected to be(a) completed and (b) published. [83564]

  Mr. Raynsford
  The research was commissioned by the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, in association with the Women's Unit and the Department of Health, in June 1998, and is progressing well. The research involves a number of data collection exercises, including surveys of local authorities and women's refuge groups, case studies in a small number of local authorities, and interviews with households who have made use of the accommodation and support services. Fieldwork will be completed by the end of the year.

  The final report and good practice guidance for local authorities on the options for addressing the accommodation and support needs of households experiencing domestic violence is expected to be published in summer 2000.

  Passenger Partnership Fund
  Ms Keeble
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he will publish the guidelines for the Passenger Partnership Fund. [83699]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  OPRAF will be publishing shortly guidance for those who wish to bid for some of the Rail Passenger Partnership Fund.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many applications for information he received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83105]

  Mr. Prescott
  For monitoring purposes, this information is collected on a calendar year basis. Information for 1997 was published last year in the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information 1997 Report. In 1998 my Department received 5,304 applications for information under the Code and granted 5,302 of them.

  Urban Centres
  Mr. Jim Cunningham
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps the Government are taking to improve facilities in urban centres for(a) the less mobile and (b) those on low incomes. [83599]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  My Department has issued guidance to local authorities on a range of measures to improve town centres for people with mobility difficulties. On the transport side, in January this year we published new guidelines on the use of tactile paving surfaces to provide warning and guidance to blind and partially-sighted pedestrians. We also intend to publish our strategy to encourage walking soon. This will set out the need for town centre improvements to take into account the needs of all groups, including disabled people and the 30 per cent. of households without access to a car.

  More generally the planning policy guidance for town centres and retail developments (PPG6) we have issued to local authorities has made particular reference to improving access to and within town centres, improving the pedestrian environment and, in particular, addressing the needs of people with mobility difficulties. We would expect authorities to survey the access and mobility needs of disabled people and demonstrate a commitment to meeting their needs in drawing up their strategies for town centres, their development plans and in making decisions on new developments.

  We also expect local authorities to demonstrate a similar commitment in their Local Transport Plans (LTPs). The guidance already issued to local authorities on preparing their LTPs has made particular reference to the needs of people with mobility difficulties. We expect LTPs to provide evidence to support their record in this area, and provide detail of their future plans.

  Turning to buildings, Part M of the Building Regulations requires that reasonable provision should be made for access and facilities for disabled people in all new buildings. These requirements currently apply to buildings other than dwellings, but from 25 October this year they will be extended to all new dwellings.

  In terms of low incomes, we have commissioned research into the links between public transport and social exclusion. The research will seek to establish the level of exclusion from public transport, identify the factors which discourage different groups from using it, examine the initiatives to encourage new passengers, and propose a range of initiatives to encourage ridership among excluded groups. The results of the research will be available in late 1999.

  Rural Brown-field Sites
  Mr. Fraser
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what the Government's policy is on returning rural brown-field sites developed in the Second World War and no longer required for the original purpose to greenfield status. [83778]

  Mr. Raynsford
  The future use of a previously developed site should be consistent with the local planning authority's development plan and with the Government's planning policy guidance.

  Planning Guidance
  Mr. Fraser
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) what account he takes of public support for the construction of a relief road in deciding whether to give statutory protection to an area considered by English Nature to be worthy of special conservation the designation of which will obstruct the building of that road; [83777]

  (2) what account his Department takes of the effect on environmental pollution of selecting a site for protection as a Special Area of Conservation whose designation will obstruct the construction of a relief road. [83760]

  Mr. Meale
  None. All Special Areas of Conservation are selected on the basis of their scientific conservation interest. The decision to allow the building of a road must be based on a number of planning factors one of which is its possible effect on nature conservation sites. Article 6 of the Habitats Directive requires all plans or projects which may have a significant effect on sites designated as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) to be assessed for their implications on the site's conservation objectives. If that assessment shows that the plan or project would adversely affect the integrity of the site, consent may only be given, in the absence of alternatives (ie a less damaging way of carrying out the scheme), in the overriding public interest.

  London-Ipswich Corridor
  Mr. Jenkin
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what is the remit for the multi-modal transport study for the London-Ipswich corridor; when it will be completed; if he will place any papers relating to traffic flows, investment options and opportunities for the injection of private finance received in the course of the study in the Library; and if he will make a statement. [83749]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  Following consultation with the Regional Planning Body and others, we announced on March 23 that a study into the London to Ipswich corridor would be added to Tranche 2 of the Multi-Modal Studies programme. Tranche 2 studies will begin in 2000 and are expected to take on average 2 years to complete.

  The terms of reference for the study will be drawn up by a Steering Group which will include the Regional Planning Conference (SERPLAN) the Government Office, the Local Highway Authorities and transport providers. The aim of the study will be to address strategic problems within the London to Ipswich corridor, including on the Al2, and to identify solutions to those problems from all modes of transport and land use planning which meet our overarching environmental, safety, economic, accessibility and integration objectives for transport.

  The study will be an open process conducted in partnership with SERPLAN and in consultation with a wide range of interests. Specific reports related to the studies, covering topics such as data collection, option testing and strategy formulation etc., will be available from the Government Offices who are managing the studies.

  Fenchurch Street Station
  Mr. Mackinlay
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, pursuant to his answer of 5 May 1999,Official Report, column 396, concerning services to Fenchurch Street Station, if he will introduce legislation to improve the level and speed of compensation for customers in respect of infrastructure failures which are the responsibility of Railtrack. [83714]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  Compensation to passengers for delays and cancellations, whatever their cause, is paid under the Passenger's Charter. These payments are made directly to passengers by the Train Operating Companies (TOCs) with which they travelled. All TOCs were required as part of their franchise agreements to publish a Passenger's Charter and the level of compensation offered and the events which triggered such payments were required to be as good or better than those offered by British Rail. The Franchising Director cannot unilaterally require improvements.

  Mr. Mackinlay
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, pursuant to his answer of 5 May 1999,Official Report, column 396, concerning services to Fenchurch Street Station, what action the Government are taking to ensure that Railtrack invest sufficiently to reduce the incidence of infrastructure failure. [83716]

  Ms Glenda Jackson
  We made it clear at the National Rail Summit in February that the Government is prepared to work in partnership with the railway industry to deliver a better rail service and increased investment. But Railtrack must play its part in creating a high quality, high growth, high investment railway. We have appointed Sir Alastair Morton to lead the shadow Strategic Rail Authority, and Tom Winsor as Rail Regulator, to ensure that that investment is delivered.

  Westminster Council
  Mrs. Shephard
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what has been the total cost to public funds of the Westminster auditor's inquiry into the Westminster Council's designated sales policy over the period 18 July 1989 to 30 April 1999. [83381]

  Ms Armstrong
  We are advised by the Audit Commission that the auditor's costs for the investigation, up to and including the publication of his report in 1996, was £3,017,905, which has been met by Westminster City Council. The Audit Commission has, since the commencement of High Court proceedings, met further costs of £3,705,000. This includes the legal costs of the auditor for the High Court and Appeal Court Hearings, and the costs of those appellants whose appeals were successful in the High Court. It does not include the High Court and Appeal Court costs of Dame Shirley Porter and David Weeks; the Appeal Court is reconvening in several weeks to consider the award of these costs.

  Audit Commission
  Mrs. Shephard
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will set out the authority under which the Audit Commission may make, vary, or refuse payments to a District Auditor it has appointed; and if he will make a statement. [83382]
  12
  Ms Armstrong
  The Audit Commission appoints auditors in accordance with the provisions set out in the Audit Commission Act 1998. Section 3(8) gives the Audit Commission discretion to make appointments on such terms and for such periods as the Commission may determine. These terms include the basis on which payments are made to appointed auditors.

  Fuel Poverty
  Mr. Dismore
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he expects to publish the Government's fuel poverty policy proposals. [83906]

  Mr. Meale
  The Government intend to publish their proposals for the way ahead on fuel poverty tomorrow. They follow an extensive inter-departmental review of all current policies and programmes, including discussions with over 60 organisations with an interest in this area. Fuel poverty is an important issue which affects all too many households and which we are determined to address. The proposals will be subject to a two month consultation period, during which we shall actively seek views from interested parties. Copies of the consultation paper will be available tomorrow morning in the Library of the House and the Vote Office.

WALES

  Union Recognition
  Mr. Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what monitoring his Department undertakes of the implementation of Government policies on wages and union recognition in companies in South Wales. [81921]

  Mr. Hain
  Wages

  The Government asked the Low Pay Commission to monitor and evaluate the introduction and impact of the national minimum wage with particular reference to the effects on pay, employment and competitiveness. The Commission has been asked to report its findings by December. However, all employers in Wales will need to act within the law respecting the provisions of minimum wage legislation.

  Union Recognition

  The Employment Relations Bill, which contains a statutory procedure for trade union recognition, is currently being considered in another place. The Government is committed to reviewing the operation of such a procedure once it is in place.

  Genetically Modified Crops
  Mr. Edwards
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will list each application for a licence to grow genetically modified crops in Wales in 1999, and the proposed locations. [82220]

  Mr. Jon Owen Jones
  No applications to release genetically modified organisms at sites in Wales have been received in 1999.
  13
  An application was received, in December 1998, for the approval of research trials of Spring GM oilseed rape at 15 locations across Great Britain. In line with normal procedures this was assessed by the Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment who appraise the application and advise on whether consent should be granted. One of the proposed release sites was in Monmouthshire and a consent was issued earlier this year. Subsequently, the farmer in Monmouthshire has withdrawn his permission to trial the GM crop.

  My right hon. Friend's responsibilities in this area are shortly to transfer to the National Assembly for Wales.

  New Deal
  Mr. Rowlands
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what estimate he has made of the number of lone parents who have agreed to join the New Deal programme in Wales. [83765]

  Mr. Hain
  The latest information from the Employment Service indicates that, by the end of March 1999, over 4,400 lone parents had agreed to participate in the New Deal for Lone Parents in Wales.

  Mr. Rowlands
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what his latest estimate is of the number of lone parents who have found jobs under the New Deal arrangements in Wales. [83764]

  Mr. Hain
  The latest information from the Employment Service indicates that, by the end of March 1999, almost 1,200 lone parents had secured jobs through the New Deal for Lone Parents in Wales.

  Mr. Rowlands
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his estimate of the numbers of 18 to 24-year-olds who have obtained jobs through the New Deal arrangements in Wales. [83766]

  Mr. Hain
  The latest information from the Department for Education and Employment indicates that, by the end of February 1999, over 4,300 young people had secured sustained jobs through the New Deal for 18-24s in Wales.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many applications for information he received under the Open Government: Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83121]

  Mr. Michael
  For monitoring purposes this information is collected on a calendar year basis. Information for 1997 was published last year in the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information 1997 Report. In 1998 my Department received 18 applications for information under the Code and granted 14 of them.

DEFENCE

  Armed Forces (Overstretch)
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what measures his Department is taking to address overstretch in the Armed Forces. [82588]
  14
  Mr. Doug Henderson
  We remain firmly committed to addressing overstretch in the Armed Forces. Recruiting is an important priority; it remains buoyant and all three Services have improved their recruitment achievements during the last year. We are also making strenuous efforts to improve retention, for example through the Strategic Defence Review 'Policy for People' initiatives.

  Kosovo
  Ms Squire
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the current security situation in Kosovo. [82589]

  Mr. George Robertson
  Serbian forces continue their brutality against Kosovar Albanians. Over one million have been forced from their homes. The UNHCR report that approximately 800,000 are now resident in temporary camps outside Kosovo or in countries elsewhere. A further 350,000 to 800,000 are thought to be internally displaced seeking refuge and safety in Kosovo.

  Mr. Dalyell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the estimated tonnage of ordnance dropped on oil and chemical plants in Yugoslavia since 24 March; and what estimate he has made of resulting emissions of(a) ammonia, (b) benzene, (c) chlorine, (d) mercury, (e) phosgene and (f) sulphur dioxide. [82592]

  Mr. George Robertson
  I am withholding information on the tonnage of ordnance dropped in Yugoslavia since 24 March under exemption 1 of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information. We take the need to avoid dangerous emissions from nuclear and chemical plants fully into account in making decisions about targets. The UK will comply with its obligations under the First Geneva Protocol.

  Mr. Amess
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment his Department has made of the effectiveness of the air campaign against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia to date. [82600]

  Mr. George Robertson
  NATO's military action has had significant impact on Yugoslav military and special police operations and continues to do so. The air campaign is moving systematically and progressively to disrupt the violence and degrade President Milosevic's forces, his sustaining infrastructure, command and control and other targets associated with his system of repression.

  Ms Dari Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what role British troops are playing in assisting the humanitarian relief effort for Kosovar Albanian refugees. [82610]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  The UK will continue to play a leading role in responding to the humanitarian crisis in the region.

  British troops in Macedonia have been assisting refugees since the beginning of April. They are continuing to prepare and distribute food and to supply blankets, nappies and other essential items. UK troops have also been involved in improving infrastructure at the refugee camps. This has included erecting tents and shelters, digging latrines, laying water pipes, removing rubbish, erecting fences and constructing tracks and bridges.
  15
  Today we plan to make available some 1,000 UK troops, currently in Macedonia, to assist in the humanitarian aid effort in Albania, where they will work with troops from other NATO nations to construct camps for up to 65,000 refugees. These camps will be handed over to Non Governmental Organisations to administer as soon as they have been established.

  Mr. David Heath
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what role British troops are currently playing in providing humanitarian support in south-east Europe. [82601]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  In south-east Europe, British troops are providing humanitarian support in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and in Albania. For the details of their role, I refer The hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Stockton, South (Ms Taylor) today,Official Report, column 140.

  Mr. Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what quantities of(a) food, (b) medical equipment and (c) temporary accommodation have been provided by (i) United Kingdom military forces and (ii) NATO forces to refugees in (1) Macedonia, (2) Montenegro and (3) Albania since the outset of the NATO action in Yugoslavia; and what has been the cost to date of such assistance. [81944]

  Mr. George Robertson
  UK forces have not yet provided any assistance to refugees in Montenegro. In Albania and Macedonia UK forces have played a key role in alleviating the refugee crisis. In Albania this has not as yet involved provision of food, medical supplies or temporary accommodation. In Macedonia, full details of the quantities are not available, but estimated costs to date under the relevant headings are as follows:

  £

  (a) food

  2,500,000

  (b) medical supplies

  37,000

  (c) temporary accommodation

  95,000

  The Department for International Development will reimburse MOD for the above costs, and has assumed responsibility for future assistance. We do not have records of the value of assistance supplied by other NATO nations.

  Mr. Blunt
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many additional(a) major units and (b) trained soldiers the Army would require to sustain 24-month tour intervals if operational deployments to Kosovo/ Macedonia/Albania and Bosnia are sustained at current levels indefinitely. [83139]

  Mr. George Robertson
  [holding answer 4 May 1999]: This would depend on the circumstances of particular operations, the overall level of operational commitment and progress towards achieving full manning.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what reports he has received on the identity of the perpetrators of war crimes in Kosovo. [83402]

  Mr. George Robertson
  It is for the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia in The Hague to seek indictments against 16
  individuals she believes have been responsible for serious violations of international humanitarian law in Kosovo. The Government will hand over as much information as they can that will be relevant to the Tribunal's investigations.

  Mr. Wareing
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what reports he has received of the extent of collateral damage caused by NATO air raids in(a) the Belgrade suburb of Banjica and (b) Aleksinac. [83490]

  Mr. George Robertson
  [holding answer 7 May 1999]: We do not have any information on collateral damage to the Belgrade suburb of Banjica.

  As NATO has said, a military facility was struck at Aleksinac, home of the 203rd mixed artillery brigade. Despite meticulous pre-attack planning, it is possible that one weapon fell short of the target. (I am placing in the Library of the House a full transcript of what was said on the subject by a NATO spokesman at a press conference on 6 April 1999).

  Unlike President Milosevic, we take great care to reduce the risk of casualties and collateral damage. If there has been any unintended damage to civilian property or loss of life we regret this, but NATO's military actions are the result of Milosevic's brutal policy of ethnic cleansing.

  Royal Army Medical Corps
  Mr. Fraser
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on funding for the Royal Army Medical Corps. [82590]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  The Strategic Defence Review increased the size of the Royal Army Medical Corps by 212 Regular and 675 Territorial Army personnel, an increase of 14.5 per cent. overall. This is part of a major enhancement of the Defence Medical Services for which we are providing an extra £140 million over the years 1998–99 to 2001–02, with further expenditure planned in subsequent years.

  Former Service Men (Sexual Orientation)
  Dr. Harris
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the position of former service men discharged on the basis of their sexual orientation. [82591]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  The Ministry of Defence does not monitor Service personnel once they have been discharged from the Armed Forces, whether on the grounds of their sexual orientation, or any other grounds.

  NATO Summit
  Mr. Cohen
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what decisions were made at the NATO summit in Washington regarding the non-proliferation of (i) nuclear weapons and (ii) weapons of mass destruction; and if he will make a statement. [82593]

  Mr. George Robertson
  At the NATO Summit meeting in Washington on 23-25 April, which I attended, the Alliance decided to launch a Weapons of Mass Destruction Initiative. It is designed to integrate and
  17
  further improve Alliance political and military efforts to counter their proliferation. This decision was recorded in the summit communiqué.

  Staff College (Camberley)
  Mr. Hawkins
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will announce his plans for safeguarding the war memorial and buildings of staff college, Camberley; and if he will make a statement.[82595]

  Mr. Spellar
  In the light of the decision to base the Joint Doctrine and Concepts Centre at Shrivenham, a further review of the future of the Camberley site will now take place and a report will go to Ministers in the autumn. This solution will take full account of the war memorial in the Main Building.

  Guided Missiles (Saudi Arabia)
  Mr. John Cryer
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the planned gift of guided missiles to Saudi Arabia. [82596]

  Mr. George Robertson
  The details of the gift of Paveway bombs are contained in the Departmental Minute which was laid before Parliament on 4 February 1999.

  Territorial Army
  Miss McIntosh
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what proportion of the Territorial Army is currently deployed on operations. [82597]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  334 Members of the Territorial Army (TA) are currently deployed on operations, and these represent some 0.67 per cent. of the overall TA. The majority of these are in Bosnia.

  Mr. Waterson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of morale in the Territorial Army. [82605]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 22 February 1999,Official Report, columns 27–28. The situation remains unchanged.

  Parachute Regiment
  Mr. Gerald Howarth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will review the proposed reorganisation of the Parachute Regiment following operations in Kosovo. [82598]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  No. The current situation in Kosovo does not affect the Strategic Defence Review conclusions made in respect of the Parachute Regiment.

  Troop Deployment (Bosnia)
  Mr. Jim Cunningham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many British troops are currently deployed in Bosnia. [82603]

  Mr. George Robertson
  I refer my hon. Friend to the oral answer given today,Official Report, column 3, to my hon. Friends the Members for Warrington, North (Helen Jones) and Plymouth, Sutton (Mrs. Gilroy).

  Army Ranges (Shoeburyness)
  Sir Teddy Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what progress has been made in determining the future use of the old and the new ranges in Shoeburyness. [82604]

  Mr. Spellar
  Progress is being made with respect to the disposal of defence establishments at Shoeburyness, Horseshoe Barracks and the Old Ranges (including Gunners Park). Having been declared surplus to my Department's requirements, they are now being prepared for disposal. A draft Planning Brief has been the subject of a public consultation exercise and was approved by the full Borough Council on 25 February. Marketing of the site will begin shortly. With regard to the New Ranges, DERA is seeking to appoint a new contractor to support the operation of the range. It is intended that this contractor will also work with the Agency to improve exploitation of the range through the introduction of alternative activities to supplement income. Several possible diversification opportunities have been identified. However, as negotiations are currently in hand with preferred bidders, it would be premature to provide details until the remaining contractual issues have been resolved.

  RAF Strike Command
  Mr. Blunt
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what proportion of RAF Strike Command is currently committed to operations. [82606]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  As at 7 May 1999, approximately 8 per cent. of Strike Command's trained strength is currently deployed on operations.

  The figures represent personnel deployed away from their parent station and, as such, do not account for personnel supporting operations from their normal station, such as those at RAF Bruggen. Similarly, the figures do not include personnel working at Strike Command or Group Headquarters who are involved as part of their normal tasks in planning activity in support of operations. It would not be straightforward to give an accurate figure which included these personnel.

  Strategic Defence Review
  Mr. Beard
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps are being taken to adapt the Army's tactical doctrine to the more flexible role defined for it by the Strategic Defence Review. [82607]

  Mr. George Robertson
  The Army's tactical doctrine is under continuous review and improvement, taking into account the lessons of current and recent operations. This process now includes planning for the employment of the new structures created by the Strategic Defence Review, such as the Air Assault Brigade with its Attack Helicopters. In addition, a Joint Doctrine and Concepts Centre is being established at Shrivenham. It will be a centre of excellence on joint doctrine for all three Services.

  Mr. Brady
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to change the resource assumptions made in the strategic defence review. [82609]

  Mr. George Robertson
  None.

  Eurofighter
  Dr. Iddon
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the progress of the Eurofighter programme. [82608]

  Mr. George Robertson
  The Eurofighter programme is progressing satisfactorily. Production contracts for the first 148 Eurofighter aircraft, 55 of which are for the Royal Air Force, were signed in Munich on 18 September 1998. The project remains on schedule to deliver the RAF's first Eurofighter in June 2002.

  The seven development aircraft have now flown a total of some 950 sorties, (some 770 flying hours), achieving speeds up to Mach 2.0.

  Achievements this year include the signing of the initial aircraft supports contracts in January, and a high altitude demonstration of the aircraft powered by the new Eurojet 200 engine. Most recently, the rear seat controls in one of the 2 twin-seater development aircraft have been demonstrated.

  Trident
  Mr. Corbyn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current deployment of the Trident submarine fleet. [82611]

  Mr. George Robertson
  There are currently three Trident submarines in the operational cycle in order to maintain one submarine on deterrent patrol at all times. The UK's minimum deterrent force is maintained at several days' notice to fire as was announced in the Strategic Defence Review.

  Falklands Garrison
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current cost of garrisoning the Falklands. [82612]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  The cost to the Ministry of Defence of the Falklands garrison in the financial year 1998–99 is expected to be approximately £70 million.

  This figure relates to the costs incurred by the Commander British Forces Falkland Islands only. It does not include the costs of the RAF airbridge to the Falkland Islands, nor the cost of naval deployments to the South Atlantic. These costs fall to other budgets and are not separately identified.

  Defence Agencies Merger
  Mr. Jim Cunningham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the merger of the Military Survey and Joint Air Reconnaissance Intelligence Centre (JARIC) Defence Agencies. [83904]

  Mr. Spellar
  The case for merging the Military Survey and JARIC Defence Agencies into a single, converged Agency was considered under the Strategic Defence Review, and built on earlier work.

  The final study, which was completed in September 1998, concluded that there were a number of drivers, mainly in the medium to long-term, recommending the merger of Military Survey and JARIC. These would
  20
  secure improved operational effectiveness and better service to Defence. Early implementation of merger was recommended.

  Following full consultation, I have asked the Director General of Intelligence and Geographic Resources to proceed with the implementation of a single Agency to be launched in April 2000. The post of Chief Executive Designate of the new Agency, Colonel Peter Walker OBE, has been filled by internal competition. On promotion to Brigadier he will lead an Implementation Team which will be established shortly before he assumes his Chief Executive role in April 2000.

  Resource Accounting
  Mr. Hancock
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will publish the illustrative resource accounting and budgeting accounts for his Department for 1998–99. [82517]

  Mr. George Robertson
  The first Departmental Resource Account for publication is that for 1999–2000, which will appear in autumn 2000, in line with the timetable set out in the White Paper "Better Accounting for the Taxpayer's Money" (Cmd. 2929, July 1995). The 1998–99 Departmental Resource Account is not due to be published.

  RAF Deployment
  Mr. Blunt
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the required increase in(a) RAF squadrons and (b) RAF strength to achieve an average deployment on operations for RAF personnel of six months every 30 months based on the RAF's deployed position as at 23 March. [83231]

  Mr. George Robertson
  [holding answer 4 May 1999]: The target figure for nights away from home on deployment or detachment is 140 nights in one year, or 280 aggregated over two years in peace-time. This needs to be seen in the context of the likely demands placed on the Royal Air Force over a period of time rather than on the basis of a snapshot on one particular day.

  Ex-service Pensions
  Mr. Mackinlay
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many ex-servicemen receive levels of pensions that were adversely affected by short-term pay restraint measures which were in force at their date of retirement. [82575]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  [holding answer 4 May 1999]: During periods of pay restraint, principally during the mid 1970s, the pay of members of the armed forces rose by less than the rate of increase of the retail prices index (RPI). As a consequence the pensions of those who retired during these periods can be lower than the pensions of those who retired either before or after that period. The numbers affected are not known. However, the numbers leaving the armed forces during the years 1976–78 ranged between 46,500 and 48,500, but not all of those who retired during those years would have been entitled to a pension.

  Graphite Bombs
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the cost of a graphite bomb. [83465]

  Mr. George Robertson
  The UK armed forces do not hold such weapons and we have no details about their cost.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many applications for information he received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83113]

  Mr. Spellar
  For monitoring purposes, this information is collected on a calendar year basis. Information for 1997 was published last year in the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information 1997 Report. In 1998 my Department received 271 applications for information under the Code, and granted 248 of them.

  RAF Museum, Hendon and Cosford
  Mr. Dismore
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the future development of the RAF museum at Hendon and Cosford. [82594]

  Mr. Spellar
  Development of the RAF Museum is a matter for its Trustees. A new Visitor Centre at the RAF Museum's Cosford site was completed last year. The Trustees' plans for a major development at Hendon, which are dependent upon Heritage Lottery Fund grants, are progressing well. My Department supports these plans. Indeed, we funded the initial work and have promised further funds towards the Museum's contribution to the development costs.

  Defence Estimates
  Mr. Keith Simpson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he intends to publish the statement on the Defence Estimates; and if he will make a statement. [83581]

  Mr. George Robertson
  I have made no decision on the publication date of the 1999 Defence White Paper. I am keeping the timing of publication under review in the light of developments in the Balkans. As I informed the House of Commons Defence Committee in February, the Defence White Paper will be a forward-looking policy document complementing the Annual Performance Report and replacing the Statement on the Defence Estimates.

  Skill Shortages
  Mr. Sheerman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what skill shortages he has identified within Her Majesty's forces. [82602]

  Mr. Doug Henderson
  In the Naval Service there is a shortfall of Engineer Officers, particularly Direct Graduate Entry Engineers, and Engineer (Training Managers). For Ratings/Other Ranks the shortfall categories are: Operator Mechanics; trained Naval Nurses; Short Engagement Seamen; Artificer Apprentices; Commando Medical Assistants; and General Duties Marines. For the Army,22
  there are skills shortages in the medical, dental, and veterinary services. Shortfalls also exist in the Royal Artillery, Royal Signals, Infantry, Army Air Corps, Royal Logistics Corps, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Intelligence Corps and Corps of Army Musicians. The RAF has a shortfall in the number of junior officer fast jet pilots, and officers in engineering and medical branches. A shortage in RAF Fighter Controllers is also giving cause for concern.

  Each Service has introduced a range of initiatives to reduce these shortfalls.

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

  Renewable Energy
  Mr. Hesford
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has for encouraging the power generating companies to increase their use of renewable energy sources. [82244]

  Mr. Battle
  Renewable sources of energy make an important contribution to secure, sustainable and diverse energy supplies and are an essential element of a cost-effective climate change programme. The Government are working towards a target of renewable energy providing 10 per cent. of UK electricity supplies as soon as possible. They hope to achieve this by 2010. I have recently published "New and Renewable Energy: Prospects for the 21st Century", which seeks views on the balance of measures and the precise form of support for renewables in the next stage of their development. It identifies the key issues which the Government, industry and other players will need to address. It affirms the Government's commitment to their new drive to develop renewables; identifies the practical steps which might be needed to achieve this objective; and seeks to engage a wider public in the development and realisation of its strategy.

  Redundancies
  Mr. Fearn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many redundancies were reported to his Department(a) in 1997, (b) in 1998 and (c) to 31 March 1999, in (i) Southport and (ii) the North West of England. [82911]

  Mr. Ian McCartney
  The number of redundancies reported to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State were:

  Southport

  North West Region

  1997

  314

  33,316

  1998

  516

  36,948

  to 31 March 1999

  359

  18,697

  Home Businesses
  Mr. Cotter
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what estimate he has made of the number of businesses in the United Kingdom run from home; and what initiatives his Department has taken to address the specific needs of those businesses. [83040]
  23
  Mr. Wills
  [holding answer 5 May 1999]: No official estimate has been made of the number of businesses run from home. The Labour Force Survey, Spring 1998, estimated that 600,000 self employed people work mainly from their own home, and a further 1.1 million use their home as a base while working in different places.

  There are no schemes specifically addressed towards home-based businesses. Home based businesses and the self employed are eligible for business support in the same way as any other small business. Business Link partnerships provide support to all businesses regardless of size or their location. In addition, the DTI makes available a considerable amount of free information on a wide variety of topics.

  I met with officials from the Home Business Alliance on 27 April to discuss their concerns for home-based workers.

  Parental Leave
  Ms Harman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will list those European countries which(a) pay and (b) do not pay people on parental leave, indicating the methods used for making such payments. [83558]

  Mr. Byers
  From the information that we hold, it appears that some form of state payment is provided in Italy, Sweden, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany and Luxembourg during parental leave, subject to each Member State's qualifying conditions.

  There does not appear to be any universal provision for payment in Spain, Portugal, Greece, Ireland or the Netherlands.

SCOTLAND

  Scottish Parliament (Facilities)
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what(a) reciprocal and (b) other arrangements have been made for hon. Members to use facilities at the Scottish Parliament. [83240]

  Mr. McLeish
  MSPs themselves will wish to consider the nature of their relationship with Westminster MPs. It will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament itself to decide on what arrangements it would be appropriate to make for hon. Members to use facilities at the Scottish Parliament.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many applications for information he received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83112]

  Mr. Dewar
  This information is collected for monitoring purposes on a calendar year basis. Information for 1997 was published in the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information 1997 24
  Report. In 1998 my Department (including non-departmental public bodies covered by the Code) received 263 applications for information made under the Code and granted 255 of them.

  From 1 July, this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.

  Public Record Office
  Sir Brian Mawhinney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many linear metres of storage space at the Public Record Office for Scotland are(a) occupied by records and (b) vacant. [83753]

  Mr. McLeish
  The National Archives of Scotland has 69,492.94 metres of available shelf space, of which 57,618.48 are currently occupied.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS

  Environmental Appraisal
  Mr. Truswell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what environmental appraisals of policy his Department has(a) completed, (b) started and (c) planned. [79632]

  Mr. Robin Cook
  I refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Minister for the Environment, Transport and the Regions on 13 April 1999,Official Report, column 66.

  EU-ACP Ministerial Meeting
  Mr. Maclean
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will publish the agenda for the forthcoming EU-ACP Ministerial Meeting of 6 May. [83279]

  Ms Quin
  The last EU-ACP Ministerial Meeting took place in Dakar in February and the next will take place on 29–30 July in Brussels. A separate ACP-EU Council between these negotiating sessions was provisionally envisaged for May, but in the event no need for it arose. No agenda has yet been fixed for the next meeting.

  China and Tibet
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, pursuant to his answer to the hon. Member for Ruislip-Northwood (Mr. Wilkinson) of 26 April 1999, Official Report, column 36, on China and Tibet, if he will list those areas on which a dialogue-based approach has made limited progress; and if he will make a statement on how he intends to press China to take further action. [83557]

  Mr. Robin Cook
  Since the UK/China human rights dialogue was established in September 1997, and the EU/China human rights dialogue resumed in October 1997, China has taken several positive steps which will bring about its closer co-operation with UN human rights mechanisms. These include signature of the international covenants on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and Civil and Political Rights, and agreement to report to the Un under those covenants in respect of Hong Kong. It has received visits by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the UN Working Group on Arbitrary
  25
  Detention, as well as allowing a visit to Tibet by EU Troika Ambassadors. It has also extended an invitation to visit to the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture. We have been able to discuss issues of serious concern including the death penalty, religion, Tibet and individual cases in the dialogues; China has also begun to collaborate with the UK and EU on human rights co-operation programmes. We shall press for further concrete steps through these continuing dialogues, as well as forthcoming bilateral and EU high level meetings with China.

  Subsidiarity
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on how many occasions he has blocked a Commission proposal at the Council of Ministers on the ground of subsidiarity. [83474]

  Ms Quin
  Subsidiarity is one of numerous factors taken into account when legislation is discussed in the Council of Ministers. It is not possible to say how often it has been the principal factor in UK opposition to a Commission proposal.

  Cambodia
  Mr. Mullin
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what position Her Majesty's Government took on Cambodia at the recent United Nations Commission on Human Rights meeting in Geneva; and if he will make a statement. [83374]

  Mr. Robin Cook
  We see the UNCHR as an important opportunity to press the Cambodian Government to improve its human rights record. This year we co-sponsored a successful resolution on Cambodia which called for proper investigation into extra-judicial killings, an end to impunity, and for Khmer Rouge leaders to be brought to justice. We will continue to press for full respect for human rights in Cambodia, both through diplomatic pressure and practical assistance.

  Sudan
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent information he has received from the United States Government concerning the missile attack last year on the pharmaceutical plant in Khartoum. [83468]

  Mr. Robin Cook
  It is established practice under Section 1(c) of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information not to disclose or discuss information received in confidence from foreign governments.

  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what reports he has received from Sudan concerning the attack on Akoc in Troc County, Bhar-el-Ghazal, Southern Sudan on 26 February. [83084]

  Mr. Robin Cook
  [holding answer 6 May 1999]: We have had a number of reports of an attack on Akoc by murahileen. Reporting by NGOs on the ground talked of over 40 killed and nearly 900 abducted.

  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress has been made in re-establishing an embassy in Khartoum. [83085]
  26
  Mr. Robin Cook
  [holding answer 6 May 1999]: As I made clear at the time of the withdrawal of staff, we hope the necessary conditions will be re-established for a return to normal relations with Sudan. We have been in regular contact with the Sudanese authorities and discussions continue.

  Mr. Dalyell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, pursuant to the letter from Lady Bingham of Cornhill to the Minister of State, the right hon. Member for Leeds, Central (Mr. Fatchett), what assistance he has given to the Sudanese Red Crescent(a) emergency vaccine campaign against meningitis and
  (b) malaria eradication programme. [83354]

  Mr. Robin Cook
  Support for Red Cross activities, as for all humanitarian responses in Sudan, is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for International Development.

  Entry Clearance Visas
  Mr. Vaz
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what was the average length of time of an interview for an entry clearance visa in(a) Bombay, (b) New Delhi, (c) Calcutta, (d) Islamabad, (e) Dhaka and (f) Karachi in the last year for which figures are available. [83560]

  Mr. Robin Cook
  Applications are dealt with on the basis of a triage system which separates them into 4 tiers. The tiers are:

  (A) Non-settlement

  Tier 1: Straightforward applications received over the counter, by post, or from an agent, resulting in immediate issue or mandatory refusal. ECOs may ask one or two questions if necessary to clear up minor points.

  Tier 2: Secondary examination of less straightforward applications that are likely to result in an issue.

  Tier 3: For cases likely to result in refusal. A full interview is required.

  (B) Settlement

  Tier 4: This is the category under which all settlement cases are dealt with. Interviews can result in issue, refusal, referral (to the Home Office for a decision) or deferral (for additional information to be obtained).

  The average length of interviews at the posts listed is as follows (figures, in minutes, are for 1998):

  Post

  Tier 1

  Tier 2

  Tier 3

  Tier 4

  Bombay

  2.00

  9.00

  30.00

  50.00

  New Delhi

  2.02

  5.33

  28.46

  57.54

  Calcutta

  3.00

  10.00

  29.75

  39.17

  Islamabad

  3.85

  10.50

  35.65

  39.71

  Dhaka

  2.80

  8.07

  32.87

  58.11

  Karachi

  1.59

  4.28

  26.50

  43.00

  Turkey
  Mr. Wareing
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received in respect of Turkey's conflict with its Kurdish population; and if he will make a statement. [83561]
  27
  Ms Quin
  We receive regular representations from Members of Parliament, Members of the House of Lords, members of the public and interested groups about the conflict in south-east Turkey.

  We have made it clear to the Turkish authorities that we believe the conflict in the region cannot be resolved by military means alone. We believe that the social and economic problems of south-east Turkey and the aspirations of the Kurdish population there must be addressed if the region is to achieve a long-lasting peace.

  We have long made clear our condemnation of terrorism in all its forms, including terrorist acts by the PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party).

  Mr. Wareing
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the current position in respect of Turkey's application to become a member of the European Union. [83488]

  Ms Quin
  [holding answer 7 May 1999]: The Cardiff European Council in June 1998 endorsed the European Strategy for Turkey, which aims to prepare Turkey for membership by bringing it closer to the EU in all areas. The Turks and the Commission have met three times so far to discuss implementation of the Strategy. We welcome the Commission's proposals for funding the Strategy, worth 150 million euro over 3 years. These proposals are currently being considered by the European Parliament; we hope they can be agreed soon.

  In November 1998, the Commission produced its first annual report on Turkey's progress towards European Union membership. The report noted that Turkey had most of the hallmarks of a market economy, but still needed to address shortcomings in the areas of human rights, treatment of minorities and the lack of civilian control over the army. Turkey must improve its record in these areas in order to meet the criteria for membership of the European Union laid down by the 1993 Copenhagen European Council.

  Zimbabwe High Commission
  Mr. Dismore
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many children over the age of majority living in the United Kingdom as part of the household of employees or diplomats of the Zimbabwe High Commission are entitled to diplomatic immunity. [83551]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  [holding answer 7 May 1999]: There are five children over the age of majority living in the United Kingdom as part of the households of diplomats of the Zimbabwe High Commission. All five are entitled to diplomatic immunity.

  Chagos Islands
  Dr. Marek
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, pursuant to his answer on 26 April 1999,Official Report, column 35, what approach he will adopt in considering applications for full British citizenship from Ibis who do not hold full citizenship of another country. [83379]
  28
  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  [holding answer 7 May 1999]: The British Government does not propose to extend the offer of British citizenship to British Dependent Territories citizens who owe their status to their association with the British Indian Ocean Territory.

  Kosovo
  Mr. Wareing
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (1) what reports he has received concerning the whereabouts of Dr. Ibrahim Rugova; what attempts have been made to contact him; and with what results; [83485]

  (2) what contact Her Majesty's Government have had with the Democratic League of Kosovo; and if he will make a statement. [83484]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  [holding answer 7 May 1999]: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary spoke by telephone to Dr. Rugova on 6 May in Rome, where he was staying as a guest of the Italian government. Prior to that, I met with Mr. Hafiz Gagica, a senior representative of the LDK on 23 April. Officials remain in close contact with the LDK.

  Montenegro
  Mr. Wareing
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has received from Montenegro in respect of the military action in Yugoslavia. [83486]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  [holding answer 7 May 1999]: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary is in regular contact with the Montenegrin President, Mr. Djukanovic. President Djukanovic naturally regrets the need for military action against the FRY. We understand his position and have pledged Montenegro maximum support.

  Mr. Dalyell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made on the effects of an oil embargo on Montenegro. [83582]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  We recognise the political and economic impacts on Montenegro of the conflict in Kosovo. Both the EU and NATO have made every effort to minimise the adverse effects for Montenegro of punitive measures against the regime in Belgrade, including the EU oil embargo which entered into force on 30 April. The European Union has recently allocated 13 Meuro for budgetary assistance for Montenegro. We are pressing the Commission to ensure that these funds are disbursed as soon as possible, and are exploring other ways of assisting.

  Croatia
  Mr. Wareing
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is Her Majesty's Government's policy in respect of the return of refugees to Krajina; and what representations have been made to Croatia in respect of their return. [83492]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  [holding answer 7 May 1999]: The Government believes that all those displaced from their homes during the conflicts following the break-up of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia should be allowed to return to their homes.
  29
  We take every opportunity to impress on the states of the former Yugoslavia, including Croatia, the importance we place on refugee return. I most recently raised this issue with Mrs. Skare-Ozbalt, President Thajman's principal adviser on refugee policy, when she called on me in London on 26 April.

  KLA
  Mr. Wareing
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when Her Majesty's Government first made direct contact with the Kosova Liberation Army; and how many meetings there have been between Her Majesty's Government and that organisation since. [83494]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  [holding answer 7 May 1999]: An initial meeting between an official of the British Embassy in Belgrade and leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) was held on 30 July 1998. As co-Chairman of the Rambouillet peace talks, my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary held frequent meetings with the Kosovo Albanian delegation, which included representatives of the KLA. My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and officials have subsequently had a number of contacts with senior leaders of the KLA.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many applications for information he received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83107]

  Mr. Tony Lloyd
  For monitoring purposes, this information is collected on a calendar year basis. Information for 1997 was published last year in the "Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information 1997 Report. In 1998, my Department received 46 applications for information under the Code—35 were met in full, 8 in part and 3 were refused.

CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many applications for information he received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83115]

  Janet Anderson
  My Department monitors applications for information received under the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information on a calendar year basis. In 1998–99 the Department and those of its sponsored bodies1 then subject to the Code received 34 requests for information. 30 of these were granted.

  1In 1998–99 the following DCMS sponsored executive NDPBs were subject to the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information:

  Royal Parks Agency

  Arts Council of England

  British Film Institute

  British Library Board
  30
  Crafts Council

  English Sports Council

  English Tourist Board

  English Heritage

  Museums and Galleries Commission

  National Heritage Memorial Fund/Heritage Lottery Fund

  Registrar of Public Lending Right

  UK Sports Council.

  An Order taken before the Privy Council in February 1999 brought all the executive and two of the advisory NDPBs sponsored by my Department within the scope of the Code.

  Folk Music
  Mr. Whittingdale
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what measures his Department is taking to promote traditional folk and acoustic music. [83294]

  Mr. Alan Howarth
  The Government recognise the importance of folk and acoustic music to our wider arts policy. The strategic arms length relationship between DCMS and the Arts Council in funding issues means that it is for the Arts Council and Regional Arts Boards to take decisions on the funding of specific art forms, but DCMS is aware of the need to ensure that performers, producers and promoters of folk music continue to receive appropriate support. The Arts Council—having already provided significant Lottery support to folk music, and having also increased substantially the grant-in-aid budget to be committed to it—will shortly be launching a new Folk Music Policy which, following consultation, will provide a framework for future development, partnerships with other sectors, and future funding.

  Hotels
  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to publicise the launch of the new rating scheme for hotel accommodation; and when it will take place. [83036]

  Janet Anderson
  [holding answer 4 May 1999]: The Government have asked the English Tourist Board, which will shortly become the English Tourism Council, to arrange the consumer launch of the new harmonised schemes for hotel and guest accommodation, working closely with the AA and the RAC. Preparatory inspections will shortly be complete and the launch is planned for September. We support these arrangements to ensure wide awareness of the benefits of the new schemes.

  UK Sports Institute
  Mr. Reed
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what progress he has made in the allocation of the facilities at the regional centres of excellence for the UK Sports Institute. [83168]

  Mr. Banks
  Since the launch of the UK Sports Institute's network in England on 1 March 1999, Sport England have briefed key individuals and institutions in consortiums on the way forward. They are also updating the 1997 audit of sport to clarify individual World Class Programme sports service and facility requirements.
  31
  The information will be used to draw up a template for each UK Sports Institute consortium which will set out the service and facility requirements for each individual area. These will be ready to present to the network consortiums in the summer.

  BBC Director-General
  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what discussions he has had with Mr. Greg Dyke with regard to the appointment of the next Director-General of the BBC. [83037]

  Mr. Chris Smith
  [holding answer 4 May 1999]: I have had no detailed discussions with Mr. Greg Dyke about the appointment of the next Director-General of the BBC. He did, however, inform me on 4 February that he was considering applying for the post.

  Millennium Commission Projects
  Mr. Reed
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what proportion of projects which have received Millennium Commission awards have been in(a) the east midlands and (b) Leicestershire. [83164]

  Janet Anderson
  This is a matter for the Millennium Commission. My right hon. Friend will reply to my hon. Friend in his capacity as Chairman of the Commission, and place copies of his reply in the Libraries of the House.

  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1) if he will list the expected sources of partnership funding for each of the Millennium capital projects; and how much has now been secured in each case; [83758]

  (2) how much of the matched funding being sought by the Millennium Commission capital projects is expected to come from (a) local authorities, (b) development corporations, (c) ERDF, (d) other Government sources and (e) private donations. [83759]

  Mr. Chris Smith
  These are matters for the Millennium Commission. I shall write to the hon. Member in my capacity as Chairman of the Commission, and place copies of my reply in the Libraries of the House.

  School Playing Fields
  Mr. Spring
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many planning applications for the sale of school playing fields have(a) been considered and (b) been objected to by Sport England since 25 February; and if he will list them. [81801]

  Mr. Banks
  [holding answer 28 April 1999]: Since 25 February Sport England has considered 45 planning applications in respect of school playing fields and objected in 4 cases. Of the remaining 41 planning applications, 16 are still undergoing assessment by Sport England. The list of planning applications is as follows:

  Region

  Site name

  London

  Horsenden School, Ealing Ashmole School, Barnet

  East Midlands

  Pingle School, Swadlincote St. Peter's and St. Paul's, Lincoln Daventry Tertiary College Trinity Higher Comp., Nottingham

  32

  Region

  Site name

  South

  Lord Grey School, Milton Keynes St. Bernard's School, Basingstoke Sandmills School, Oxford Hailey Borough School, Windsor Grange School, Aylesbury Furze Down School, Aylesbury Wycombe Abbey School Queen Anne's Reading Southwold Primary Bishop Lovett Middle School Queen Dyke School, West Oxon St. Leonard's Primary, Cherwell West Berkshire Education Centre Ryde High School, Isle of Wight Shaw House School Westgate School, Winchester Oriel College, Oxford

  North

  Queen Katherine School, Kendal Walkerden Special School, Newcastle Ehenside School, Cleator Moor Haughton Comprehensive, Darlington Cumwhinton Primary School, Cumbria

  East

  Elmstead Primary School Moulsham School, Chelmsford Market Field School, Elmstead Sir Fredrick Osbourne, Welwyn Surlingham CP School Litcham HS Station Road, Harpenden (off site)

  North West

  Our Lady Reconciliation HS, Liverpool Ribbleton High School, Preston Hyde High School Former Stanney Grant Infant School Shepherd Cross Primary School, Bolton

  West Midlands

  Aldersley High School, Wolverhampton Broad Heath School, Coventry Cockshut Hill School, Birmingham

  South West

  Sedgemoore Manor Junior School, Bridgwater

  South East

  Deburgh School, Tadworth

  Millennium Dome (Opening Ceremonies)
  Mr. Vaz
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what steps he is taking to ensure that those invited to the opening ceremonies of the Dome are representative of the whole of society. [82327]

  Janet Anderson
  The New Millennium Experience Company are determined that the opening celebration at the Millennium Dome on 31 December 1999 will be an inclusive event and will represent the whole of society. The majority of those invited will be members of the general public from across the UK. NMEC are currently developing their strategy for delivering this and will announce the arrangements in due course.

  Departmental Legal Business
  Mr. Dismore
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will make a statement on his Department's policy when(a) conducting legal proceedings and (b) seeking legal advice as to the circumstances in which Queen's Counsel should be instructed; and for each of the last three years (i) on how many occasions his Department instructed Queen's Counsel and (ii) what was the total cost of instructing Queen's Counsel.[81764]
  33
  Mr. Chris Smith
  In relation to sub-paragraphs(a) and (b) of my hon. Friend's question concerning my Department's policy when conducting legal proceedings, and when seeking legal advice as to the circumstances in which Queen's Counsel should be instructed, this Department would normally expect the Treasury Solicitor's Department to instruct Counsel on its behalf. I refer my hon. Friend to the reply given by the Solicitor-General on 26 April 1999, Official Report, columns 1–2.

  With regard to each of the last three years, as far as my officials have been able to ascertain without incurring disproportionate cost, from April 1996 to March 1997 Queen's Counsel were instructed in one case; from April 1997 to March 1998 Queen's Counsel were instructed in three cases; and from April 1998 to date Queen's Counsel were instructed in five cases.

  As far as my officials have been able to ascertain without incurring disproportionate cost, the total cost of instructing Counsel during the periods referred to above was:

  for 1996–97: £146,689.75; and

  for 1997–98 £11,350.50; and

  for 1998 to date £25,168.51.

  It should be noted that the total figure given for the period 1996–97 covers work for two cases—it includes a sum attributable to Counsel's fees for work undertaken before April 1996 but paid after that date. It should also be noted that the figure given for 1998 to date excludes Counsel's fees for work undertaken in that period which are yet to be agreed.

  Professional Statisticians
  Mr. Menzies Campbell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many staff who have worked as professional statisticians in his Department and its predecessor have left on early retirement in each of the past 10 years. [81174]

  Janet Anderson
  The number of "professional statisticians" who have left on early retirement in the last 10 years is none.

  Mr. Menzies Campbell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many staff by grade are employed as professional statisticians in his Department; how many of these staff have been accepted as fast stream by the Civil Service Selection Board; and how many have been granted chartered statistician status by the Royal Statistical Society. [81196]

  Janet Anderson
  Statistical work is undertaken by a range of specialisms such as Research Officers, Social Survey Officers and Economists. Within this Department there are 1 Grade A (U)—Grade 6 equivalent, 1 Grade A (L)—Grade 7 equivalent, 1 Assistant Statisticians employed as "professional" statisticians, all of whom have been recruited via CSSB.

  Special Advisers
  Mr. Tyrie
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, pursuant to his answer of 21 April 1999,Official Report, column 577, if he will give the total travel
  34
  cost of each occasion when (a) departmental special advisers travelled abroad in an official capacity since 2 May 1997 and (b) the place visited. [82412]

  Mr. Chris Smith
  For the period 2 May 1997 to 31 March 1999, special advisers in my Department have travelled overseas in an official capacity on two occasions to the USA and France.

  The total cost of travel and any hotel accommodation is £7,739. All travel complied with the requirements of the Ministerial Code and the Civil Service Management Code.

  Broadcasting Licences
  Mr. Swayne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what recent representations he has received regarding lifting the restrictions on religious organisations which prevent them holding national terrestrial radio broadcasting licences; and if he will make a statement; [83129]

  Mr. Pickthall
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will make a statement on United Christian Broadcasting's application for a broadcasting licence. [83044]

  Janet Anderson
  The Broadcasting Act 1990 disqualifies groups whose objectives are wholly or mainly of a religious nature from holding a terrestrial national radio licence issued by the Radio Authority. However, this disqualification does not extend to local, satellite and cable radio licences where the Authority is permitted to licence religious bodies subject to compliance with its religious guidelines. It is under these provisions that, for example, United Christian Broadcasters already holds two satellite broadcast licences from the Radio Authority. A religious organisation can hold a digital satellite radio licence but not a terrestrial digital radio multiplex or sound programme service licence under the 1996 Broadcasting Act.

  My Department has received representations from United Christian Broadcasters, from around two hundred Members of Parliament and more than ten thousand representations from members of the public. We are considering these representations and I will be meeting representatives of United Christian Broadcasters on 10 June to explore their concerns more fully.

HOME DEPARTMENT

  Asylum (Kosovan Albanians)
  Mr. Allan
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to revise the rules governing refusal of asylum on safe third country grounds in respect of Kosovan Albanians. [83614]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  We are not persuaded that it is necessary to change the Immigration Rules. The Dublin Convention provides an agreed legal framework for deciding which member state should decide asylum applications made in the European Union. It provides for a range of criteria to be taken into account including the applicant's family links. Member states have not decided to suspend the operation of the Convention in respect of Kosovan Albanians. In recent weeks, we have transferred
  35
  a small number of Kosovans to other member states. In each case the receiving state had, in accordance with the provisions of the Dublin Convention, accepted responsibility for considering the asylum applications. All of these persons had arrived in the European Union before the recent North Atlantic Treaty Organisation action. None of those Kosovans who are being airlifted directly from the region to the United Kingdom will be transferred to other states on safe third country grounds.

  Mr. Allan
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many Kosovan Albanians have been(a) refused asylum and (b) removed to other countries on safe third country grounds since 24 March. [83615]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  The available information is that no nationals of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, whose cases have been considered substantively, have been refused asylum in the period January to March 1999. It is not possible separately to identify Kosovans within the statistics held on nationals of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

  All applications for asylum are considered within the terms of the 1951 United Nations Convention on the Status of Refugees and its 1967 New York Protocol. At the present time, and in general, ethnic Albanians from Kosovo who apply for asylum are likely to be able to demonstrate that they have a well-founded fear of persecution and will be granted asylum.

  Where, under the provisions of the Dublin Convention, another European Union member state accepts that it is responsible for determining the claim we would normally seek to transfer the applicant there. Six nationals of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, excluding dependants, have been transferred to European Union Member states since 24 March 1999 under the Dublin Convention. All of these persons had arrived in the European Union before the recent North Atlantic Treaty Organisation action. None who arrived since that date have been transferred. No Ethnic Albanians from Kosovo will be returned to the region while the conflict lasts.

  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to accommodate Kosovan refugees in East Lancashire. [83605]

  Mr. Straw
  The Refugee Council and its partner agencies are working closely with the Home Office and local government associations to identify sites for further reception centres across the United Kingdom. We are looking at all parts of the United Kingdom. There will be a variety of different forms of accommodation used as temporary reception centres where the refugees can be housed prior to moving into more settled accommodation.

  Immigration and Nationality Directorate
  Mr. Allan
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what payments have been made to Siemens Business Systems in respect of work for the Immigration and Nationality Directorate to date. [83617]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  Details of the payment arrangements between the Immigration and Nationality Directorate (IND) and Siemens Business Services are commercially confidential. A high proportion of the payments to the supplier are linked to the successful delivery of key elements of the IND Casework 36
  Programme, including the computer system and improvements in IND-s productivity. In effect it is payment on delivery of specific parts of the contract.

  Mr. Allan
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate he has made of the additional costs to the Government which have resulted from the late delivery of the Siemens Business Systems contract with the Immigration and Nationality Directorate. [83618]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  Under the terms of the contract between the Immigration and Nationality Directorate and Siemens Business Services (SBS), the financial risk for the late delivery of elements of the Casework Programme is borne by Siemens Business Services. Although development of the full information technology application has been delayed, many elements of the Programme, in particular improvements to the business process and some new information technology, have been delivered. A package of changes to the contractual payment terms has been negotiated with SBS.

  Mr. Allan
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what penalties have been imposed on Siemens Business Systems for late delivery of work at the Immigration and Nationality Directorate. [83613]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  The Immigration and Nationality Directorate's Casework Programme is a Private Finance Initiative. A high proportion of the payments to the supplier, Siemens Business Services, are linked to the successful delivery of key elements of the Programme, including the computer system, and to improvements in the Immigration and Nationality Directorate's productivity. If the expected benefits are not achieved, the payments to the supplier fall below the target in the contract. The delay in delivering the Programme and the Computer system means that Siemens Business Services have received substantially less income.

  Mr. Allan
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what estimate he has made of the total cost of the contract with Siemens Business Systems for work at the Immigration and Nationality Directorate. [83612]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  The contract contains a novel charging mechanism in which the Immigration and Nationality Directorate pays for services provided as specified in the contract. Milestone charges relating to the delivery of key elements of the business process improvements and the information technology system and a productivity-related charge is based on the level of savings achieved. Because payments are linked to productivity-related savings, it is difficult to predict the value of payments to be made to Siemens Business Services.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many applications for information he received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83108]

  Mr. Straw
  For monitoring purposes, this information is collected on a calendar year basis. Information for 1997 was published last year in the Open Government Code
  37
  of Practice on Access to Government Information 1997 Report. In 1998, my Department received 43 applications for information under the Code, and granted 36 of them.

  Correspondence
  Sir Brian Mawhinney
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) pursuant to his answer of 29 March 1999,Official Report, column 554, concerning when the Under-Secretary of State, the hon. Member for North Warwickshire (Mr. O'Brien), would reply to the letter of 3 February from the right hon. Member for North-West Cambridgeshire, for what reason the Under-Secretary did not respond in the week beginning 29 March; [83771]

  (2) when the right hon. Member for North-West Cambridgeshire can expect a reply to his letter of 3 February to the Under-Secretary, the hon. Member for North Warwickshire (Mr. O'Brien), on behalf of his constituent, Mr. Perry. [83755]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  I apologise to the right hon. Member for not having replied to his letter of 3 February. It has only been brought to my attention due to an administrative error in my Department. I have now replied to the right hon. Member.

  Subordinate Legislation (Publication on Internet)
  Mr. White
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects to be able to publish on the Internet, drafts of the subordinate legislation to be made under the Data Protection Act 1998. [83748]

  Mr. George Howarth
  Drafts of six of the statutory instruments being prepared under the Data Protection Act 1998 will be published on the Internet at www.homeoffice.gov.uk on Tuesday 11 May 1999. I am also placing copies in the Library. Other drafts will be made available in due course.

  Special Branch (Records)
  Mr. McNamara
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many individuals have their personal details recorded on the(a) data base and (b) files maintained by the National Joint Unit of the Metropolitan Police Special Branch; and how many of these individuals are (i) Irish, (ii) US and (iii) non-EU and non-US citizens. [81678]

  Mr. Straw
  [holding answer 29 April 1999]: None. The National Joint Unit (NJU) does not maintain its own records, but instead draws as necessary upon information held by individual Special Branches nationwide. The NJU, although situated with the Metropolitan Police

  1998–99 Prison Service KPI results

  KPI

  1998–99 Target

  1998–99 Outturn

  Category A escapes

  0

  0

  Escapes

  less than 0.17%

  0.14%

  Assault rate

  less than 9%

  9.3%

  Positive random drug resting rate

  lessthan20%

  18.4%

  Purposeful hours per prisoner

  24

  22.8%

  % of population above uncrowded capacity

  less than 12%

  10%

  Are standard/enhanced regime prisoners unlocked >= 10 hours on weekdays

  60%

  57.2%

  Offending behaviour programmes completions

  3.000

  3.125

  38
  Special Branch (MPSB) at New Scotland Yard, is not part of the Metropolitan Police Service. It is a national unit, managed by the MPSB but staffed by police officers drawn from forces around the country.

  Prevention of Terrorism Review
  Mr. McNamara
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department by what means and on what date Mr. J. J. Rowe QC was informed that his terms of reference for review of the operation of the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act 1989 in 1998 did not include sections 5, 6 and 7 of the Criminal Justice (Terrorism and Conspiracy) Act 1998 relating to conspiracy; and what arrangements will be made to review the operation of these sections of the Act.[81679]

  Mr. Straw
  [holding answer 29 April 1999]: Mr. Rowe was advised by letter dated 17 November 1998 that the terms of reference for his annual review of the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act 1989 (PTA) did not include review of the conspiracy provisions in sections 5, 6 and 7 of the Criminal Justice (Terrorism and Conspiracy) Act 1998. Arrangements are now in hand for the appointment of a reviewer of the working of those sections and an announcement will be made in due course.

  Fair Trade Products
  Ms Ward
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to introduce fair trade products at(a) meetings, (b) events and (c) catering facilities within his Department. [82866]

  Mr. Straw
  In purchasing goods and services for these and other purposes, my Department takes full account of the Government's policy of seeking value for money, having due regard to propriety and regularity. However, my Department has undertaken a review of the implications of offering Fair Trade products and will be issuing guidance on their use in the near future.

  Prison Service
  Mr. Beith
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will publish the results achieved by the Prison Service on each of its key performance indicators(a) in each prison and (b) on average, in the last year; and if he will make a statement.[83708]

  Mr. George Howarth
  The Prison Service met five of its eleven targets for the 1998–99 year. This is based on provisional information which is subject to validation by prisons. The tables show key performance indicator (KPI) average performance for the Service as a whole and for each establishment. The overcrowding KPI is formulated in terms of overall Prison Service capacity and population levels and is not applicable to individual prisons.
  39

  1998–99 Prison Service KPI results

  KPI

  1998–99 Target

  1998–99 Outturn

  Sex offender treatment programmes completions

  680

  605

  Cost per place (cash terms)

  £24,615

  £25,096

  Training days per staff member

  6.5

  7.8

  Performance against Key Performance Indicators by prison, 1998–99

  Prison name

  Category A escapes

  Escapes

  Assault rape(%)

  Positive random drug testing rate(%)

  Purposeful house per prisoner

  Are standard/enhanced regime prisoners unlocked >=10 hours on weekdays

  Offending behaviour programmes completions

  Sex offender treatment programmes completions

  Cost per place2(£)

  Training

  Acklington

  0

  0

  2.9

  28.0

  23.8

  Yes

  54

  14

  14,650

  12.6

  Albany

  0

  0

  1.9

  1.5

  23.8

  Yes

  105

  47

  19,801

  7.6

  Aldington

  0

  1

  0.7

  22.2

  28.1

  Yes

  0

  0

  16,090

  7.3

  Altcourse

  0

  1

  18.4

  19.0

  20.5

  Yes

  0

  0

  4—

  4—

  Ashwell

  0

  0

  1.6

  38.3

  33.3

  Yes

  0

  0

  15,040

  10.3

  Askham Grange

  0

  0

  0.0

  10.9

  42.0

  Yes

  0

  0

  18,069

  6.1

  Aylesbury

  0

  0

  41.4

  14.2

  20.9

  No

  63

  0

  23,021

  10.2

  Bedford

  0

  0

  7.0

  24.1

  22.7

  No

  39

  0

  20,390

  9.3

  Belmarsh

  0

  0

  11.2

  11.8

  13.2

  No

  0

  0

  31,196

  9.3

  Birmingham

  0

  1

  6.2

  30.3

  13.3

  No

  0

  0

  20,334

  6.2

  Blakenhurst

  0

  0

  18.7

  38.5

  21.8

  Yes

  20

  0

  22,001

  4—

  Blantyre House

  0

  0

  0.0

  0.7

  39.6

  Yes

  30

  0

  17,806

  6.1

  Blundeston

  0

  0

  6.4

  14.1

  25.8

  Yes

  0

  0

  20,232

  7.3

  Brinsford

  0

  0

  35.4

  21.4

  16.3

  No

  0

  0

  18.847

  7.5

  Bristol

  0

  0

  9.2

  23.6

  21.3

  Yes

  31

  0

  31,844

  7.2

  Brixton

  0

  0

  11.8

  12.0

  15.7

  Yes

  62

  17

  22,757

  7.8

  Brockhill

  0

  0

  21.4

  15.8

  21.1

  Yes

  0

  0

  29,867

  5.1

  Buckley Hall

  0

  0

  2.9

  37.6

  26.8

  Yes

  0

  0

  19,972

  4—

  Bu11ingdon

  0

  0

  6.9

  26.0

  21.2

  Yes

  51

  0

  16,485

  12.7

  Bullwood Hall

  0

  0

  19.2

  13.6

  19.1

  Yes

  0

  0

  29.281

  8.1

  Camp Hill

  0

  0

  5.3

  30.2

  19.3

  No

  0

  0

  18,576

  3.7

  Canterbury

  0

  0

  2.1

  13.3

  18.5

  Yes

  0

  0

  33,983

  6.7

  Cardiff

  0

  0

  5.9

  25.5

  21.3

  Yes

  25

  0

  21,783

  6.8

  Castington

  0

  2

  28.5

  17.5

  20.7

  No

  14

  14

  19,288

  13.5

  Channings Wood

  0

  0

  1.9

  15.6

  30.5

  Yes

  73

  38

  16,543

  7.8

  Chelmsford

  0

  0

  12.4

  23.6

  15.8

  No

  0

  0

  19,726

  6.6

  Coldingley

  0

  0

  0.3

  12.4

  40.7

  Yes

  0

  0

  22,015

  10.3

  Cookham Wood

  0

  1

  6.4

  7.0

  22.3

  Yes

  8

  0

  26,511

  7.6

  Dartmoor

  0

  0

  6.0

  5.5

  18.9

  No

  102

  19

  19,423

  7.2

  Deerbolt

  0

  2

  19.1

  8.9

  19.9

  Yes

  0

  0

  17,934

  8.2

  Doncaster

  0

  0

  19.7

  12.6

  17.0

  Yes

  0

  0

  25,454

  4—

  Dorchester

  0

  0

  5.9

  33.9

  14.4

  No

  0

  0

  30,114

  7.4

  Dover

  0

  1

  21.8

  13.0

  21.2

  No

  0

  0

  38,360

  8.0

  Downview

  0

  0

  0.0

  3.3

  30.8

  Yes

  0

  0

  19,152

  7.6

  Drake Hall

  0

  0

  0.4

  17.9

  34.9

  Yes

  0

  0

  14,289

  6.3

  Durham

  0

  0

  8.0

  16.0

  20.2

  Yes

  0

  0

  29,450

  6.9

  East Sutton Park

  0

  0

  0.0

  4.2

  40.1

  Yes

  0

  0

  18,545

  7.1

  Eastwood Park

  0

  1

  15.5

  15.8

  21.6

  Yes

  0

  0

  22,633

  11.8

  Elmley

  0

  0

  5.8

  11.5

  20.2

  No

  91

  0

  18,459

  10.1

  Erlestoke

  0

  0

  0.7

  25.3

  27.2

  Yes

  0

  0

  17,711

  8.6

  Everthorpe

  0

  1

  3.5

  30.6

  27.0

  Yes

  0

  0

  17,882

  5.7

  Exeter

  0

  0

  12.5

  27.9

  13.6

  No

  0

  0

  29,405

  6.4

  Featherstone

  0

  4

  2.0

  42.5

  24.2

  Yes

  19

  0

  18,448

  4.2

  Feltham

  0

  1

  25.6

  20.7

  15.5

  No

  21

  13

  18,820

  8.4

  Ford

  0

  0

  0.0

  11.3

  35.6

  Yes

  0

  0

  11,253

  6.3

  Foston Hall

  0

  0

  11.9

  9.0

  23.4

  Yes

  15

  0

  27,055

  12.0

  Frankland

  0

  0

  5.1

  17.3

  18.4

  Yes

  43

  7

  36,437

  11.5

  Full Sutton

  0

  0

  4.1

  6.9

  17.6

  No

  85

  21

  35,593

  8.9

  Garth

  0

  0

  1.9

  12.1

  21.3

  Yes

  0

  0

  18,611

  8.1

  Gartree

  0

  0

  3.0

  25.3

  27.0

  Yes

  41

  0

  22,735

  7.3

  Glen Parva

  0

  2

  35.8

  15.1

  16.7

  No

  40

  0

  16,642

  7.8

  Gloucester

  0

  0

  26.7

  30.2

  26.4

  No

  0

  0

  26,197

  5.6

  Grendon

  0

  0

  1.3

  11.2

  34.2

  No

  45

  0

  19,320

  7.3

  Guys Marsh

  0

  2

  5.9

  35.4

  22.8

  Yes

  20

  0

  15,283

  5.9

  Haslar

  0

  0

  2.0

  2.5

  18.8

  Yes

  0

  0

  15,721

  7.3

  Hatfield

  0

  0

  7.9

  16.2

  32.5

  Yes

  0

  0

  17,473

  5.8

  Haverigg

  0

  1

  1.8

  17.4

  33.9

  Yes

  0

  0

  18.207

  7.1

  Hewell Grange

  0

  0

  0.5

  11.0

  42.7

  Yes

  0

  0

  12,588

  3.3

  40 41

  Performance against Key Performance Indicators by prison, 1998–99

  Prison name

  Category A escapes

  Escapes

  Assault rape(%)

  Positive random drug testing rate(%)

  Purposeful house per prisoner

  Are standard/enhanced regime prisoners unlocked >=10 hours on weekdays

  Offending behaviour programmes completions

  Sex offender treatment programmes completions

  Cost per place2 (£)

  Training

  Highdown

  0

  0

  13.6

  21.0

  13.9

  No

  67

  14

  24,928

  9.5

  Highpoint

  0

  0

  4.2

  20.6

  23.2

  Yes

  0

  0

  18,479

  9.2

  Hindley

  0

  0

  30.8

  25.0

  23.8

  No

  0

  0

  20,376

  7.4

  Hollesley Bay

  0

  0

  14.2

  24.8

  28.1

  No

  0

  0

  20,618

  4.8

  Holloway

  0

  2

  26.9

  10.1

  17.6

  Yes

  22

  0

  34,689

  6.5

  Holme House

  0

  0

  4.6

  11.8

  15.8

  No

  0

  0

  15,179

  6.4

  Hull

  0

  0

  11.5

  15.1

  20.0

  No

  0

  0

  21,063

  8.5

  Huntercombe

  0

  0

  15.8

  16.5

  23.8

  Yes

  0

  0

  19,712

  9.2

  Kingston

  0

  0

  0.6

  20.6

  23.9

  Yes

  0

  0

  21,302

  6.8

  Kirkham

  0

  0

  0.5

  23.2

  43.5

  Yes

  0

  0

  13,870

  5.7

  Kirklevington

  0

  0

  0.0

  7.9

  50.1

  Yes

  0

  0

  13,921

  6.7

  Lancaster

  0

  0

  1.4

  37.0

  20.9

  Yes

  12

  0

  21,794

  8.7

  Lancaster Farms

  0

  0

  14.8

  5.9

  20.5

  No

  37

  0

  19,749

  5.1

  Latchmere House

  0

  0

  0.0

  14.8

  70.2

  Yes

  0

  0

  11,983

  9.8

  Leeds

  0

  0

  8.6

  18.9

  14.8

  No

  27

  0

  18,948

  7.5

  Leicester

  0

  0

  6.3

  27.1

  20.5

  Yes

  0

  0

  35,718

  6.0

  Lewes

  0

  0

  8.5

  33.2

  18.5

  No

  0

  0

  18,929

  5.4

  Leyhill

  0

  0

  0.0

  13.9

  39.0

  Yes

  26

  26

  18,333

  7.6

  Lincoln

  0

  1

  3.0

  26.8

  22.9

  Yes

  27

  0

  24,720

  4.9

  Lindholm

  0

  1

  1.0

  30.8

  24.2

  Yes

  22

  0

  19,897

  6.6

  Littlehey

  0

  1

  3.3

  13.9

  26.0

  Yes

  0

  0

  14,202

  10.1

  Liverpool

  0

  0

  4.8

  18.0

  19.0

  No

  0

  0

  19,616

  5.7

  Long Lartin

  0

  0

  6.0

  13.4

  17.4

  Yes

  42

  0

  36,851

  15.4

  Low Newton

  0

  0

  40.5

  37.1

  20.2

  No

  0

  0

  28,283

  15.2

  Lowdham Grange

  0

  0

  4.6

  31.2

  —3

  Yes

  0

  0

  1—

  4—

  Maidstone

  0

  0

  2.5

  13.0

  21.3

  Yes

  36

  0

  18,932

  9.2

  Manchester

  0

  0

  7.1

  15.7

  26.7

  Yes

  0

  0

  27,044

  6.6

  Moorland

  0

  0

  13.1

  5.5

  24.1

  Yes

  85

  0

  17,743

  6.5

  Morton Hall

  0

  0

  0.5

  8.3

  37.9

  Yes

  0

  0

  12,288

  5.7

  Mount

  0

  0

  3.7

  20.6

  18.0

  No

  0

  0

  14,637

  10.5

  New Hall

  0

  0

  13.7

  5.0

  23.7

  Yes

  10

  0

  22,501

  5.5

  North Sea Camp

  0

  0

  0.0

  24.1

  45.0

  Yes

  0

  0

  14.588

  4.7

  Northallerton

  0

  0

  15.9

  15.1

  14.5

  Yes

  0

  0

  30,967

  7.1

  Norwich

  0

  0

  9.1

  21.4

  18.3

  No

  0

  0

  22,878

  6.0

  Nottingham

  0

  0

  6.9

  26.1

  15.3

  No

  19

  0

  19,634

  7.6

  Onley

  0

  0

  35.6

  4.2

  18.4

  Yes

  71

  0

  16,105

  9.3

  Parc

  0

  0

  7.4

  44.7

  30.0

  Yes

  0

  0

  1—

  4—

  Parkhurst

  0

  0

  6.1

  2.7

  19.5

  No

  74

  0

  22,466

  8.1

  Pentonville

  0

  1

  11.0

  31.8

  20.3

  No

  77

  0

  21,330

  7.8

  Portland

  0

  0

  13.9

  9.4

  23.1

  No

  16

  0

  17,735

  6.7

  Preston

  0

  0

  9.6

  23.4

  17.1

  No

  0

  0

  28,086

  5.4

  Ranby

  0

  0

  3.2

  9.0

  26.4

  Yes

  33

  0

  16,155

  7.8

  Reading

  0

  0

  18.6

  29.3

  23.8

  No

  0

  0

  26,791

  6.7

  Risley

  0

  0

  10.4

  21.4

  21.9

  No

  28

  28

  18,360

  4.6

  Rochester

  0

  0

  14.7

  3.6

  19.1

  Yes

  34

  15

  18,555

  6.1

  Send

  0

  0

  1.2

  19.6

  40.7

  Yes

  0

  0

  32,894

  23.2

  Shepton Mallet

  0

  0

  4.3

  32.4

  22.7

  Yes

  16

  0

  25,249

  7.2

  Shrewsbury

  0

  0

  5.1

  17.2

  22.7

  Yes

  0

  0

  32,140

  6.2

  Stafford

  0

  0

  6.6

  16.9

  23.5

  No

  0

  0

  16,493

  4.5

  Standford Hill

  0

  0

  0.0

  11.4

  44.1

  Yes

  13

  0

  16,068

  6.6

  Stocken

  0

  0

  2.8

  30.4

  23.2

  Yes

  6

  0

  16,171

  9.4

  Stoke Heath

  0

  0

  37.3

  10.0

  21.6

  Yes

  7

  0

  15,407

  7.5

  Styal

  0

  1

  5.7

  13.3

  28.7

  Yes

  0

  0

  24,097

  13.5

  Sudbury

  0

  0

  0.4

  10.8

  44.5

  Yes

  27

  0

  13,410

  7.9

  Swaleside

  0

  0

  7.1

  18.1

  22.3

  No

  63

  0

  17,341

  9.1

  Swansea

  0

  0

  11.1

  37.0

  20.0

  No

  0

  0

  26,302

  4.9

  Swifen Hall

  0

  0

  14.7

  6.0

  28.9

  Yes

  116

  15

  20,870

  8.7

  Thorn Cross

  0

  0

  11.6

  21.4

  50.3

  Yes

  85

  0

  19,827

  7.4

  Usk

  0

  0

  0.0

  5.3

  34.9

  Yes

  104

  44

  21,507

  8.2

  Verne

  0

  0

  1.2

  19.4

  27.2

  Yes

  0

  0

  15,079

  6.0

  Wakefield

  0

  0

  4.3

  1.3

  18.2

  No

  144

  57

  24,520

  9.0

  Wandsworth

  0

  1

  7.2

  7.3

  18.9

  No

  107

  21

  17,817

  11.7

  Wayland

  0

  0

  2.2

  35.8

  23.8

  Yes

  96

  50

  14,417

  9.8

  Wealstun

  0

  0

  1.8

  25.2

  30.6

  Yes

  16

  0

  15,127

  6.6

  Weare

  0

  0

  0.9

  28.8

  20.8

  Yes

  0

  0

  17,463

  5.1

  Wellingborough

  0

  0

  2.1

  22.9

  25.4

  Yes

  0

  0

  19,115

  8.7

  Werrington

  0

  5

  45.1

  4.9

  24.0

  Yes

  8

  0

  26,079

  8.8

  42 43

  Performance against Key Performance Indicators by prison, 1998–99

  Prison name

  Category A escapes

  Escapes

  Assault rape(%)

  Positive random drug testing rate(%)

  Purposeful house per prisoner

  Are standard/enhanced regime prisoners unlocked >=10 hours on weekdays

  Offending behaviour programmes completions

  Sex offender treatment programmes completions

  Cost per place2(£)

  Training

  Wetherby

  0

  0

  29.9

  4.8

  28.3

  Yes

  8

  0

  18,723

  4.4

  Whatton

  0

  0

  1.2

  4.4

  28.8

  Yes

  129

  85

  15,849

  6.8

  Whitemoor

  0

  0

  12.3

  7.7

  19.0

  Yes

  44

  17

  34,998

  7.2

  Winchester

  0

  0

  6.5

  33.2

  15.7

  No

  0

  0

  23,518

  6.4

  Wolds

  0

  0

  11.0

  17.8

  29.1

  Yes

  26

  0

  25,008

  4—

  Woodhill

  0

  0

  14.1

  17.1

  20.0

  No

  72

  22

  27,806

  8.4

  Wormwood Scrubs

  0

  1

  5.0

  23.0

  14.2

  No

  51

  0

  17,368

  6.8

  Wymott

  0

  0

  2.1

  16.3

  28.7

  Yes

  128

  22

  16,382

  6.3

  1Cost per place performance figures for Parc, Altcourse and Lowdham Grange prisons cannot be provided on a comparable basis because available data include an element for capital repayment.

  2 Cost per place, assaults, positive random drug testing, purposeful hours, offending behaviour programmes and training figures are provisional. Final figures are not likely to be significantly different.

  3Purposeful activity performance figures for Lowdham Grange are not available for the financial year 1998–99.

  4Private prison contractors are not required to supply training figures.

  Referendums
  Mr. Robathan
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if it is his policy to introduce legislation to implement the recommendations of the Neill Committee on the conduct of referendums before any further national referendums. [83595]

  Mr. Straw
  We intend to publish a draft Bill to implement the main findings of the Neill Committee report before the Summer Recess, and we hope to have the new arrangements in place by the time of the next general election. The Government's position on the timing of possible referendums on changes to the voting system for elections to the House of Commons and on Britain's membership of the single currency were set out by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in the reply he gave to the right hon. Member for Richmond, Yorks (Mr. Hague) on 4 November 1998,Official Report, column 868 and in his statement of 23 February 1999, Official Report, columns 179–96 respectively.

  Criminal Law Alignment
  Mr. Mitchell
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when his Department received a copy of(a) the European Commission communication of 14 July 1998 relating to the progressive alignment of criminal laws and procedures within the Union COM (1998) 459 and (b) the Draft Convention of Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters. [83242]

  Mr. Straw: The European Commission Communication towards an area of Freedom, Security and Justice of 14 July 1998 (COM (1998) 459) was received in the Home Office on 2 September 1998 and deposited for scrutiny on 15 September 1998.

  The most recent consolidated text of the draft Convention on mutual assistance in criminal matters between the member states of the European Union is in Council Document 13144/98 JUSTPEN 108, which was received on 20 November 1998. That document has since
  44
  been supplemented by proposals for additional articles to be included in the draft Convention. Those proposals, like the consolidated text, have been submitted to the relevant parliamentary Select Committees and have been, or will be, placed in the Library.

  Violence against Women
  Mr. Cohen
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what initiatives Her Majesty's Government are taking on public education to prevent violence against women. [83563]

  Kate Hoey
  The largest single type of violence against women is domestic violence. We have, therefore, initiated a domestic violence publicity and awareness campaign to make clear the impact of violence against women, including how it so often leads to murder; to challenge misconceptions, such as believing that violence within relationships is somehow not a crime, or that the victim is to blame in some way; and to show what we can all do to reduce domestic violence and its impact, including on children who witness the violence.

  The Government launched "Break the Chain" in January, with a leaflet for survivors and those who might be in a position to help them, and an associated poster. This will be followed soon by guidance for agencies which deal with the victims of domestic violence.

  Justice and Home Affairs Council
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his answer to the right hon. Member for Penrith and The Border (Mr. Maclean) of 21 April 1999,Official Report, column 583, on the Justice and Home Affairs Council, for what reasons it was not practicable to make an earlier report to the House on the outcome of the meeting on 12 March. [83482]

  Mr. Straw
  We always aim to report promptly to the House on the outcome of Justice and Home Affairs Council meetings. But we can only prepare a report when we have a reliable record of the proceedings. In the
  45
  present case, this was received in the Home Office on 16 March, and I reported to the House in the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Clydesdale (Mr. Hood) on 22 March 1999, Official Report, columns 23–26. I assure the hon. Member that there was no avoidable delay.

  Sudbury Prison
  Mr. McLoughlin
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many prisoners are currently held in HMP Sudbury; and how many of these are serving a life sentence. [83477]

  Mr. George Howarth
  The total number of prisoners held at Sudbury prison as at 6 May 1999 was 489. Of these, 72 are serving a life sentence.

  Mr. McLoughlin
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many life prisoners at HMP Sudbury have absconded during(a) the last two months and (b) the last six months; how many of these have committed further offences for which they have been charged during the period of time they were away from the prison; and what they were charged with.[83478]

  Group members

  Mr. A. Tallentire

  ATCM (Chair)

  Mr. M. Sola

  ATCM

  Mr. S. Baxter

  Police Policy Directorate, Home Office

  Ms G. Fraser

  Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions

  Assistant Chief Constable A. McWhirter

  Association of Chief Police Officers

  Mr. G. Lander

  British Council for Offices

  Mr. W. McKee

  British Property Federation

  Mr. J. Orchard

  KOP Pavement Shopping Ltd.

  The following were also invited to attend but were unable to do so:

  David Lepper MP
  A representative of the Local Government Association.
  Membership of the working party is not expected to remain static and additional members are likely to be invited to the next meeting. No remuneration is provided for members of the working group.

  Crime Statistics
  Mr. Coleman
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many cases of incitement to racial hatred were(a) reported, (b) investigated and (c) the subject of arrest in (i) Hammersmith and (ii) Fulham police stations in (1) 1997 and (2) 1998. [79874]

  Kate Hoey
  [pursuant to her reply, 13 April 1999, c. 21-22]: I should like to point out that the figures in that answer, which were provided by the Metropolitan Police, were in fact figures for all racial incidents, and not for cases of incitement to racial hatred. The Metropolitan Police tell me that there was no offence of incitement to racial hatred recorded in either Hammersmith or Fulham Division during 1997 and 1998.
  46
  Mr. George Howarth
  In the last two months, two life-sentenced prisoners failed to return to Sudbury from temporary release: one is still unlawfully at large; the other surrendered to the police in North Wales and has been charged with murder.

  During the last six months, one life-sentenced prisoner absconded from Sudbury prison. He absconded on 5 March 1999 and surrendered to the police in Shrewsbury on 9 March 1999 with no further charges.

  Also, during the last six months one other lifer failed to return from temporary release. The prisoner was arrested in Coventry and charged with shoplifting. This charge is not being proceeded with.

  Public Speaking (Public Places)
  Mr. Vaz
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list the members of the Public Speaking in Public Places working party; and what remuneration is received by each. [83471]

  Mr. Boateng
  The Association of Town Centre Management (ATCM) has established a small working group to look at the various issues surrounding the development of public speaking in public places or "Speakers' Corners". The group met for the first time on 17 March this year and was attended by the following:

LORD CHANCELLOR'S DEPARTMENT

  Census Returns
  Sir Brian Mawhinney
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will list the Acts and the sections of those Acts which define public access to census returns.[83773]

  Mr. Hoon
  No Acts specifically define public access to census returns.

  The following Acts and sections relate to the confidentiality of information in census returns:
  The Census Act 1920, section 8(2), as amended by the Census (Confidentiality) Act 1991, section 1.

  The following Acts and sections govern public access to census returns within the public records system:
  The Public Records Act 1958, section 3(4); and section 5(1), as amended by the Public Records Act 1967, section 1.

  Sir Brian Mawhinney
  To ask the Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will list the right hon. and hon. Members who, since 1 September 1998, have been informed by the Public Record Office that access to the 1921, 1951 and 1961 census returns is covered by the Census Act 1920 as amended by the Census (Confidentiality) Act 1991. [83754]
  47
  Mr. Hoon
  I refer the right hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for South Suffolk (Mr. Yeo) on 5 May 1999,Official Report, column 427.

EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT

  Kosovo Refugees (School Provision)
  Mr. Hayes
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what estimate he has made of the additional cost to local education authorities of providing an appropriate education for child refugees entering Britain from Kosovo. [83711]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  Funding for Local Education Authorities for the education of children of Refugees from Kosovo will be provided by the Department in the same way as that for all children on school roll. When we have more information on the number of refugee children from Kosovo likely to come to the UK; their educational needs; and the geographical areas where they will be located, then we will consider what additional funds, if any, local education authorities may need to provide appropriate support.

  Mr. Hayes
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what discussions he has held with(a) the Local government Association and (b) particular local authorities with regard to school provision for child refugees entering Britain from Kosovo. [83712]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  At a joint Department for Education and Employment and Refugee Council Seminar on 28 April, I made clear the Government's commitment that the children of refugees entering Britain from Kosovo will have access to education in mainstream schools. The Department is in regular contact with the Local Government Association and the local authorities who have received refugees to date, to arrange suitable school provision. Those contacts will be developed when we have more detailed information on the numbers of refugees from Kosovo likely to enter the country, and the geographical areas in which they will be located.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many applications for information he received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary Session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83109]

  Mr. Mudie
  Statistics are not available for the period required. However, for the calendar year January to December 1998, a total of 35 requests for information were received which cited the Code of Practice. This includes 24 requests received by the Employment Service. No Code requests were refused.

  Sex Discrimination
  Dr. Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to issue guidance to employers and employees on the Sex Discrimination (Gender Reassignment) Regulations 1999. [83901]
  48
  Ms Hodge
  The Sex Discrimination (Gender Reassignment) Regulations 1999 (No. 1102), which were laid before Parliament on 9 April, came into force on 1 May. The Regulations extend the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 to cover protection from discrimination on grounds of gender reassignment in the fields of employment and vocational training.

  In order to help individuals and employers understand their rights and responsibilities arising from the new Regulations, I have published the "Guide to the Sex Discrimination (Gender Reassignment) Regulations 1999". In addition to providing helpful guidance on the effect of the legislation, it also suggests some "good practice" examples for successfully accommodating a transsexual employee in the workforce.

  I have placed a copy of the Guide in the Library.

  Leicestershire Training and Enterprise Council
  Mr. Reed
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what levels of funding Leicestershire Training and Enterprise Council received in(a) 1996–97, (b) 1997–98 and (c) 1998–99; and what level of balances they carried forward in (i) 1996–97 and (ii) 1997–98. [83179]

  Mr. Mudie
  The level of DfEE funding to Leicestershire TEC from 1996–97 to 1998–99 was as follows:

  Year

  £

  1996–97

  21,637,512

  1997–98

  20,105,386

  1998–99

  18,846,814

  In addition, DTI funding for Business Link activity amounted to:

  Year

  £

  1996–97

  1,370,103

  1997–98

  1,749,944

  1998–99

  1,652,087

  Balances carried forward were:

  £

  As at

  Committed Reserves

  Uncommitted Reserves

  Total Reserves attributable to Secretary of State

  1 April 1996

  5,090,720

  1,103,186

  6,193,906

  31 March 1997

  3,035,955

  1,425,890

  4,461,845

  31 March 1998

  2,321,875

  —

  2,321,875

  After-school Clubs
  Ms Harman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment (1) if he will make a statement about the music, art and drama content in after-school clubs; [83591]
  49
  (2) what plans he has to increase the opportunities for children to engage in music, arts and drama by an expansion of after-school clubs. [83592]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  The Government want all young people to have access to a range of out-of-school hours activities, including music, arts and drama. The Government's vision is set out in "Extending opportunity: a national framework for study support" published last year. £80 million of Standards Fund money will be made available from April 2000 for the development of study support activities throughout England. In addition, £425 million of lottery money is being made available through the New Opportunities Fund (NOF) over the next four years to support the expansion of out-of-school hours activities—both education and child care. The policy directions issued by my right hon. Friend the Culture Secretary make clear that music, art and drama activities are included within the framework of activities that NOF can fund.

  Reception
  Mr. Kidney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment he has made following the early years development and child care partnership plans for 1999–2000 of the proportion of four-year-old children attending full-time reception classes in schools. [81988]

  Ms Hodge
  The number of four-year-olds in infant classes' as at January 1998 was 320,897, equivalent to 51 per cent. of the four-year-old population.

  1Includes reception and other classes (ie non nursery classes).

  Training Organisations
  Mr. Paice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what are the criteria for approval of a national training organisation with regard to the assessment of qualifications. [83056]

  Mr. Mudie
  Any National Training Organisation which has an awarding body function, or which operates as a training provider, must demonstrate it has transparent arrangements to avoid any conflicts of interest.

  Mr. Paice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what representations he has received regarding the decision by Lantra to combine the role of instructor and assessor for their training courses. [83058]

  Mr. Mudie
  The Department has received a number of representations on this matter from industry practitioners.

  Mr. Paice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment he has made of the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority requirement for qualifications to include external quality assurance and its application in the case of National Training Organisations using instructors to assess trainees on their own courses. [83055]

  Mr. Mudie
  We welcome the QCA's requirement that external quality assurance should be a feature of vocational qualifications accredited by them. Any organisation conducting training to qualifications accredited by the QCA should be subject to quality assurance by an external body sufficiently independent of those providing the training.
  50
  Mr. Paice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will make a statement on the appropriateness of national training organisations using instructors to assess trainees on their own courses. [83057]

  Mr. Mudie
  The development of vocational skills often sensibly involves assessment, by qualified trainers, of trainees' performance in realistic working conditions, but such assessments should be subject to external verification.

  Mr. Paice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment if he will ensure that qualifications which are required by law and are his Department's responsibility should be awarded by external assessment. [83059]

  Mr. Mudie
  In the Department's designation of qualifications under Schedule 2(a) of the Further and Higher Education Act 1992, and in the Qualification and Curriculum Authority's accreditation of qualifications, awards are required to be verified by a body separate from that conducting the training.

HOUSE OF COMMONS

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the President of the Council how many applications for information she received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83110]

  Mrs. Beckett
  I have received no applications under the Code.

AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FOOD

  Common Fisheries Policy
  Mr. Darvill
  To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the carry-over of unused fishing effort allocations within the EU Multi Annual Guidance Programme (MAGP IV). [83902]

  Mr. Morley
  Under the arrangements which I announced on 24 February last year, in answer to a question from my hon. Friend the Member for Ayr (Ms Osborne),Official Report, columns 187–88, fishing effort available to the UK pelagic and beam trawl segments in 1998 was allocated between the various Producer Organisations (POs) or groups of fishermen concerned. Monitoring of uptake during 1998 showed that both segments succeeded in remaining within their main targets. Following representations from the industry, we approached the Commission to see if unused effort could be carried over into subsequent years. They have now confirmed to us that this is possible. We will accordingly be holding urgent consultation meetings with those concerned to explore how to reflect this in effort allocations for this year.

SOCIAL SECURITY

  National Insurance Numbers
  Mr. Field
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will introduce measures to enable a reliable estimate to be made of the proportion of national insurance numbers that have been fraudulently created. [82572]

  Mr. Timms
  [holding answer 4 May 1999]: A considerable amount of work has been done to estimate the number of duplicate and fraudulent National Insurance Numbers in the Departmental Central Index.

  Since 1995, the Departmental Central Index Data Cleaning Project has checked the database by selecting cases which fit certain risk criteria. The project has so far resolved over 750,000 duplicate records held in the database which were mainly created when details of customers were accidentally recorded incorrectly. Since the project started, it has detected only about 10 cases of the fraudulent use of National Insurance Numbers.

  National Insurance Contributions Office has worked with employers to check their records and looked at over half a million cases: less than 0.1 per cent. of the items were referred for investigation of potential National Insurance Number irregularities.

  The best available measure of the scale of fraud is provided by DSS benefit reviews. Since 1995, two Housing Benefit reviews have been carried out and in no instance was a case of identity fraud confirmed. Two Income Support benefit reviews have been carried out since 1995. The second review reported in 1997, and in 99.1 per cent. of cases randomly selected, identity was established to our satisfaction. The remainder included cases in which the customer could not be found.

  The studies carried out indicate strongly that identity fraud is one of the least common types of fraud, and the fraudulent use of National Insurance Numbers will form only a proportion of identity fraud. Nevertheless, we are determined that the Welfare System should be secure against fraud of this kind. Our best defence against such fraud is through our current policy of rigorously checking all applications for new National Insurance Numbers, and continuing our programme of data-cleaning departmental databases, and ensuring records are reliable.

  Housing Benefit
  Mr. Rendel
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what the planned savings were as a result of the introduction of the single room rent restriction for each quarter since its introduction; and what the actual savings for each quarter have been. [83713]

  Angela Eagle
  The estimated yearly savings, which took little account of behavioural changes, for 1996–97, 1997–98 and 1998–99 were £13/£57/£62 million respectively. However, we are unable to provide actual savings because there is insufficient quantitative information to assess how this group as a whole responded to the change.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many applications for information he 52
  received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83118]

  Angela Eagle
  For monitoring purposes this information is collected on a calendar year basis. Information for 1997 was published last year in the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information 1997 Report. In 1998 this Department received 238 applications for information under the Code and granted 232 of them.

  Benefits Agency Medical Service
  Mr. Duncan Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on his policy for fees paid to doctors working for the Benefits Agency Medical Service and on the progress of talks between Sema/NDA on the level of fees. [83606]

  Angela Eagle
  The provision of medical services was contracted out to Sema Group Medical Services on 1 September. There are now no doctors employed by the Benefits Agency.

  The question of fees to be paid to the doctors is an issue for negotiation between the doctors, their representatives, and the companies employing them (Sema Group Medical Services and Nestor Disability Analysis).

  Discussions regarding fees have taken place between Sema Group Medical Services and the British Medical Association. Although agreement has not yet been reached discussions with individual doctors are ongoing.

  Pensions
  Mr. Flynn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will estimate(a) the additional cost in 2009–10 if the basic pension were raised in line with earnings from 2000 and (b) the increase in revenue from national insurance contributions if contributors paid the same proportion of their earnings in 2009–10 as in 1999–2000. [83496]

  Mr. Timms
  The estimated additional net cost in 2009–10 of uprating basic State pension alone, without the linked benefits which include Incapacity Benefit and Widows Benefit, in line with earnings from April 2000 in 1999–2000 price terms is £4.6 billion pounds. The estimated increase in National Insurance contribution revenue if contributors paid the same proportion of their earnings in 2009–10 as in 1999–2000 is £1.7 billion.

  Notes:

  1. Figures are rounded to the nearest 0.1 billion. Gross costs have been provided by the Government Actuary's Department. The cost of uprating basic State pension in line with earnings is net of Income Related Benefit offsets.

  2. Estimates should be treated as broad orders of magnitude.

  3. Income Support and Housing Benefit offsets have been calculated using PENSIM which does not include offsets for linked benefits.

  4. Both estimates assume real earnings growth of 1.5 per cent. per annum. The estimate for the increase in National Insurance contribution revenue is based on the March 1999 Budget assumptions.
  53
  Mr. Duncan Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) if he will list the governance structures, other than those based on trustees, which his Department has evaluated in relation to the governance of stakeholder pensions; [83602]

  (2) what estimate his Department has made of the costs of the stakeholder pension being based on (a) trustee and (b) other forms of governance. [83607]

  Mr. Timms
  The Green Paper asked for views on trustees and alternative governance structures which could provide comparable benefits for stakeholder pension scheme members. A number of suggestions have been made on aspects of how different arrangements might work. We shall be considering these carefully and propose to consult further on governance arrangements for stakeholder pension schemes shortly.

  The costs of governance will be one of the factors to be taken into account in setting the proposed limit on charges in stakeholder pension schemes.

  Mr. Duncan Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if his proposals for stakeholder pensions will contain a statutory requirement for people to seek financial advice before they join a stakeholder pension scheme. [83600]

  Mr. Timms
  Appropriate information and advice for those who need it will be an important part of the decision making process for individuals considering a stakeholder pension scheme. We shall be consulting further on how that information and advice would best be delivered. Further details will be set out in due course.

  Mr. Duncan Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make it his policy to allow group personal pensions to register as stakeholder pensions. [83603]

  Mr. Timms
  Group personal pensions will be able to register as stakeholder pension schemes provided they meet the required conditions for such schemes. Those conditions are set out in the Welfare Reform and Pensions Bill currently progressing through Parliament, and will be developed in secondary legislation following further consultation.

  We are also considering how far the proposed requirement, that employers should facilitate access to stakeholder schemes for employees where an occupational scheme is not available, should apply in cases where employers offer group personal pension arrangements.

  Mr. Duncan Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what estimates his Department has made of the average cost of financial advice for an individual seeking to join(a) a personal, (b) an occupational, (c) a group personal and (d) a stakeholder pension. [83601]

  Mr. Timms
  Occupational pension schemes are operated by employers and charges for financial advice do not arise for individual employees seeking to join such a scheme.

  For people considering taking up a personal pension or joining a group personal pension scheme, the cost of advice is, in most cases, included in the overall charges attached to the pension. As my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced in his March
  54
  1999 Budget, the Financial Services Authority is to draw up league tables of investment products, including personal pensions, and charges will be a key feature.

  Information and advice for those who need it will be an important part of the decision making process for individuals considering a stakeholder pension scheme. We propose, therefore, to consult further on information and advice arrangements for those schemes. We shall then consider carefully what allowance should be made for the costs of information and advice in the proposed limit on charges.

  Mr. Flynn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security at what level the upper limit of the middle band of earnings would have to be set in order to give higher earners the same pension entitlement from phase 1 of the state second pension as from SERPS, assuming that the lower limit is as proposed in the pensions Green Paper. [83495]

  Mr. Timms
  We have recently reached the end of the consultation period on our proposals for the State Second Pension. Final decisions, including those on earnings thresholds at which different pension accrual rates apply, will take account of the responses received. However, to achieve the policy intention that higher earners would have broadly the same pension entitlement from State Second Pension as under SERPS, the upper limit for the middle band of earnings would need to be set at approximately £20,000 in 1998–99 terms.

  Paternity Pay
  Ms Kelly
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what his estimate is of the cost to the Exchequer of the introduction of two weeks' statutory paternity pay at 90 per cent. of earnings replacement value, assuming full take-up. [83804]

  Mr. Bayley
  Around 390,000 men would receive an average payment of £930 with a cost to the Exchequer of £360 million. This assumes entitlement conditions for statutory paternity pay would reflect those for statutory maternity pay. This would require a man to have been with his current employer for at least 26 weeks and have earnings at or above the lower earnings limit for national insurance purposes.

  Source:

  Family Resources Survey 1997–98, uprated to 1999–2000 prices using March 1999 Treasury Economic Assumptions.

  Disabled People
  Mr. Duncan Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what estimate his Department has made of the total number of disabled people who will receive an increase in their income as a result of the disability income guarantee. [83608]

  Mr. Bayley
  We are committed to ensuring that resources are directed towards those that need them most. The consultation document "A new contract for welfare: Support For Disabled People" published last October indicated that we expect some 175,000 disabled people and families with the highest care needs to benefit from the higher premium as a result of the disability income guarantee.
  55
  Mr. Duncan Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what estimate his Department has made of the total number of disabled children whose benefit will increase as a result of the higher rate of the mobility component of disability living allowance being extended to children aged(a) three and (b) four years of age. [83609]

  Mr. Bayley
  It is estimated that 3,000 three year-olds and 5,000 four year-olds will benefit in 2001–02 when eligibility for the higher-rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance is extended to children aged 3 and 4.

  Mr. Gordon Marsden
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to increase assistance with mobility costs available to disabled pensioners not in receipt of disability living allowance. [83253]

  Mr. Bayley
  Assistance for people disabled later in life with costs associated with mobility, among the other requirements of daily living, is the subject of specific discussions being held with groups representing disabled people.

  We have also taken a number of steps to improve the financial support available to all elderly people. These include the introduction of a Guaranteed Minimum Income for pensioners from April 1999, by increasing Income Support for the poorest pensioners by three times the normal price up-rating and an increase in the level of winter fuel payment which means that, from next winter, every eligible pensioner household will receive £100. In addition, my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has committed us to a "minimum guarantee on tax". No pensioner whose income falls below a specified level will pay Income Tax.

  In terms of other help with transport costs some help already exists, for example through the disabled person's rail card. Local authorities also have discretionary power to make special transport provision for disabled people, including elderly people. We have also announced our intention to introduce a national, standard minimum for concessionary fare schemes for people of pension age. It will require each local authority to make available at least half-fares on buses for all pensioners on purchase of a £5 annual bus pass.

  Incapacity Benefit
  Dr. Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security, pursuant to the oral statement by the Under-Secretary of State, the hon. Member for City of York (Mr. Bayley), on 20 April 1999,Official Report, Standing Committee D, column 864, what assumptions he has made about the cost or savings to the Exchequer of a change in people's behaviour as a result of changes in the law on entitlement to incapacity benefit. [82721]

  Mr. Bayley
  The costings in the explanatory notes to the Welfare Reform and Pensions Bill assume that overall the financial effects of any behavioural changes as a result of the proposed changes to Incapacity Benefit will be broadly neutral.

  The behavioural effects of the change to the contribution conditions are assumed to be negligible. This is because it would be difficult for many people to adjust their circumstances in such a way as to ensure that they
  56
  meet the contribution conditions at the time when they claim Incapacity Benefit. In addition special arrangements to enable people to re-qualify after short breaks in entitlement without paying further contributions will, together with linking rules, reduce any incentive for people to stay on benefit longer as a result of the new conditions.

  The behavioural effects of the proposal to take some account of occupational and personal pensions over £50 are assumed to be broadly neutral. Potential behavioural changes would include some people increasing their pension income, to compensate for the benefit reduction, which would lead to higher savings. Other people might seek to change their pension arrangements to maintain the level of benefit, which would lead to lower savings. In the absence of any evidence as to which of these effects will predominate it has been assumed that they will broadly cancel each other out. Since only half the pension income over £50 will be deducted from benefit, people on Incapacity Benefit will still gain from having made their own provision.

  The effects of the changes will be monitored post-implementation.

CABINET OFFICE

  Ethnic Minorities
  Mr. Ben Chapman
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what assessment he has made of the achievability of his target for ethnic minority representation in the Senior Civil Service in the period to 2004–05. [82914]

  Dr. Jack Cunningham
  The Modernising Government White Paper sets Service-wide targets to increase the number of ethnic minority staff in the Senior Civil Service. The target for 2004–05 is that 3.2 per cent. of the Senior Civil Service will be from ethnic minority backgrounds.

  This target is challenging, but achievable. It is based on an assessment of current trends and the potential impact of action we are taking. This action includes identifying and bringing on existing ethnic minority staff with potential, and ensuring all steps are taken to attract ethnic minority applicants for posts in the Service.

  Mr. Ben Chapman
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what plans he has to set further targets for ethnic minority representation in the Senior Civil Service after 2004–05. [82913]

  Dr. Jack Cunningham
  The Modernising Government White Paper sets out the Government's commitment to tackle the under-representation of ethnic minorities in the Senior Civil Service.

  Addressing this is a top priority. The target for 2004–05 is the first step. We will want to monitor progress against this and consider further action in the light of it.

  Mr. Ben Chapman
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what monitoring he proposes to undertake with regard to his target for ethnic minority representation in the Senior Civil Service. [82915]
  57
  Dr. Jack Cunningham
  We will monitor the target centrally to assess progress across the Service. Each Department will measure its own progress and report regularly on it.

  Regional Development Agencies
  Mr. Harvey
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office if he will include regional development agencies in future lists of ministerial responsibilities. [82919]

  Mr. Kilfoyle
  No. Regional Development Agencies are classified as Non-Departmental Public Bodies, which are not included in the List of Ministerial Responsibilities. Instead, details of them will be published annually in future editions of Public Bodies, copies of which will be placed in the Libraries of the House.

  Genetically Modified Foods
  Mr. Alan Simpson
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what advice the Government have received from the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Adviser about the potential links between genetically modified foods and birth defects and cancer; and when this report will be published. [83096]

  Dr. Jack Cunningham
  A draft paper prepared by the Chief Medical Office and the Chief Scientific Adviser has been considered by Ministers. The paper concluded that there is no evidence of any greater risk to human health from approved GM foods than from conventional ones and that the tests, rules and regulations for assessing the safety of GM foods are sufficiently rigorous. When the paper has been finalised it will be published.

  Freemasons
  Mr. Mullin
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many letters were sent to magistrates in the Duchy as part of the exercise to establish a voluntary register of freemasons; when the letters were sent; and if he will break down the total between(a) declared masons, (b) declared non-masons, (c) those who refused to indicate their status and (d) those from whom no reply was received, distinguishing in each case between men and women. [83497]

  Dr. Jack Cunningham
  All magistrates in Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside were sent a proforma at the end of last year asking them to declare whether or not they were Freemasons.

  From the 11 Benches in Lancashire:

  74: magistrates declared that they were Freemasons

  674: magistrates stated that they were not Freemasons

  13: magistrates declined to give this information

  295: magistrates did not return the proforma

  From the 11 Benches in Greater Manchester:

  122: magistrates declared that they were Freemasons

  1,557: magistrates stated that they were not Freemasons

  20: magistrates declined to give this information

  290: magistrates did not return the proforma

  From the 6 Benches in Merseyside:

  61: magistrates declared that they were Freemasons

  819: magistrates stated that they were not Freemasons

  28: magistrates declined to give this information

  137: magistrates did not return the proforma.
  58
  Benches were not asked to differentiate between men and women. They have been asked to provide this breakdown.

TREASURY

  Working Families Tax Credit
  Ms Harman
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what effect there will be on their eligibility for childcare tax credit if a parent of(a) one child and (b) two children who is in receipt of childcare tax credit takes unpaid parental leave under the Employment Relations Bill; [83343]

  (2) if he will estimate the effect on the income of (a) an employee whose spouse and (b) a lone parent who takes unpaid parental leave under the Employment Relations Bill and whose working families tax credit is in payment and has three months to run; [83345]

  (3) if he will estimate the effect on the income (a) on average and (b) by quartiles of a family in receipt of working families tax credit of the main earner taking unpaid parental leave under the Employment Relations Bill; [83341]

  (4) what the effect will be on the income of an employee receiving working families tax credit if his or her partner takes unpaid parental leave under the Employment Relations Bill; [83340]

  (5) if he will make a statement on the eligibility for the working families tax credit of an employed person who takes unpaid parental leave under the Employment Relations Bill while her employed spouse is the direct recipient of the working families tax credit. [83344]

  Dawn Primarolo
  [holding answer 5 May 1999]: WFTC will be awarded for a 26-week period. Each award is based on a "snapshot" of income immediately preceding the application. Once the award starts it is not affecting by changes to income during the 26-week period. That means that if a parent decides to take unpaid parental leave during that 26-week period the amount of WFTC awarded, including any child-care tax credit, will not change.

  Ms Harman
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate how many of those who did not receive family credit but will receive working families tax credit are dual-earner couples. [83342]

  Dawn Primarolo
  [holding answer 5 May 1999]: It is estimated that in 2000–01, the first full year of the Working Families Tax Credit, about 175,000 dual-earner couples who would not have been in receipt of Family Credit will receive Working Families Tax Credit.

  Fuel Duty Escalator
  Mr. Campbell-Savours
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the oral statement by the Economic Secretary of 27 April 1999,Official Report, columns 241–46, if he will set out the basis on which the cost of exempting commercial vehicles from the fuel duty escalator was calculated; and what definition of commercial vehicles was used. [83103]
  59
  Ms Hewitt
  [holding answer 5 May 1999]: Slightly under 50 per cent. of diesel is used in goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes and this is the definition on which the figures are based. The amount of diesel used by these vehicles was calculated using total distances travelled by such vehicles in 1997 and the average miles per gallon achieved by rigid and articulated vehicles. However, the definition could go much wider to include all diesel vehicles used by businesses.

  Currency Speculation
  Dr. Tonge
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received concerning the introduction of a tax on currency speculation. [83080]

  Ms Hewitt
  [holding answer 6 May 1999]: The Treasury has received a number of representations from members of the public and two letters from hon. Members about the proposal to introduce a tax on currency speculation.

  Financial Advisers
  Mr. Flynn
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer for what reasons only fee-based financial advisers are permitted to describe themselves as independent. [83553]

  Ms Hewitt
  Financial advisers are permitted to describe themselves as independent so long as they offer products from any provider. Their independence or otherwise is determined by the polarisation rules, not by their reward structure.

  Mortgage Products
  Mr. Flynn
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what factors underlie the Financial Services Authority's decision not to publish league tables on the costs and charges of mortgage products. [83555]

  Ms Hewitt
  The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has no powers to use its resources to collect information about products and activities it does not regulate. FSA is, however, working closely with the Council of Mortgage Lenders on how key mortgage information can be most effectively presented to customers.

  Financial Services Act 1986
  Mr. Flynn
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans the Government have to extend the protection afforded under the Financial Services Act 1986 to homebuyers. [83554]

  Ms Hewitt
  There are no plans to extend the present Financial Services Act to cover mortgages. The Financial Services and Markets Bill provides for mortgages to be brought within its scope and the scope of the powers of the Financial Services Authority. A decision will be made later this year on whether the scope of the Bill should include all mortgage selling.

  Correspondence
  Sir Brian Mawhinney
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the right hon. Member for North-West Cambridgeshire can expect a reply to his letter of 24 March on behalf of his constituent Miss Marvin. [83750]
  60
  Mr. Gordon Brown
  I replied to the right hon. Member on 7 May.

  Sir Brian Mawhinney
  the Exchequer when the North-West Cambridgeshire letter of 16 February on Mr. Gascoynes. [83756]

  Mr. Gordon Brown
  I replied to the right hon. Member on 7 May.

  Aviation Taxes
  Mr. Blunt
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the tax yield to the UK Exchequer of ending the duty-free concession at airports, and on aircraft, on(a) flights to Europe and (b) all flights assuming that with international agreement similar action was taken by other countries. [83352]

  Dawn Primarolo
  It is not possible to predict with any degree of certainty the additional revenue which will result from the abolition of duty-free sales(a) within Europe and (b) internationally. Estimates are sensitive to a whole range of assumptions about the nature of the successor regime and the post-abolition marketing strategies of the duty-free operators.

  Income Tax Liability
  Dr. Cable
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if interest can be the first tranche of income to be set against personal allowances for the purpose of assessing income tax liability, once the 20 pence rate comes into effect. [83372]

  Dawn Primarolo
  Savings income, including interest, is favourably taxed. Setting interest income against personal allowances ahead of other income would increase taxes by approximately £110 million and increase the tax bill of millions of people. We do not find such a change attractive.

HEALTH

  GPs
  Dr. Tony Wright
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what provisions exist to ensure that each area has a choice of male and female GPs. [73548]

  Mr. Denham
  We have made possible new ways of working that are more sensitive to doctors personal and family circumstances and we have also improved the general practitioner retainer scheme, which allows a doctor to maintain skills during a career break and so return to general practice more easily. These family friendly policies will ensure that general practice remains an attractive option for female doctors, so that patients have the widest possible choice.

  Primary Care Groups
  Mr. Brady
  To ask the Secretary of Sate for Health by what date he plans to complete the process of appointing primary care group boards. [74709]
  61
  Mr. Denham:
  [holding answer 4 March 1999]: Health authorities are charged with the responsibility to establish Primary Care Groups as committees of their authorities. This process has now been substantially completed.

  Medicines Control Agency
  Dr. Iddon
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the remit of the Medicines Control Agency is, with particular reference to areas of activity other than the licensing of medicines. [80220]

  Ms Jowell
  The Medicines Control Agency's primary objective is to safeguard public health by ensuring that all medicines on the United Kingdom market meet the appropriate standards of safety, quality and efficacy. As well as achieving this through a system of licensing before the marketing of medicines, the agency is also responsible for the monitoring of medicines and acting on safety concerns after the medicines have been placed on the market. The agency checks and monitors the standards of pharmaceutical manufacture and wholesaling, represents UK pharmaceutical regulatory interests internationally, and manages the British Pharmacopoeia Commission in setting quality standards for drug substances. It is also responsible for medicines control policy and enforcement of these requirements.

  Multiple Sclerosis
  Jackie Ballard
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to implement the recommendations in the report from the Working Party on Multiple Sclerosis produced by the British Society of Rehabilitation Medicine. [81342]

  Mr. Hutton
  The report, "A Survey of Multiple Sclerosis Provision in England 1998–99", was produced by the Association for Quality in Healthcare in November 1998 on behalf of the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

  We have set out our plans to address unacceptable variations in services via a modernisation programme to deliver more consistent and higher quality care for patients. We remain committed to improving standards of healthcare and to ensuring that newer treatments, including new medicines, are introduced into the National Health Service as fast as possible where they represent a genuine therapeutic advance and are cost effective.

  In addition, the move to new commissioning arrangements will bring about improvements in services for people with conditions like MS. Longer term agreements, reflecting dialogue between clinicians and focusing on health improvement and quality objectives, will increase the emphasis on programmes of care that cross the traditional boundaries to meet patients needs best.

  NHS (Ethnic Minorities)
  Mr. Stinchcombe
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what data his Department has collated on the time it takes for ethnic minority members of NHS staff to be promoted within NHS hospitals relative to white members of staff; [82232]
  62
  (2) what data his Department has collated on the rate at which ethnic minority members of NHS staff resign from the NHS relative to the rate for white members of staff; [82231]

  (3) what data his Department has collated on whether ethnic minority members of NHS staff are more likely to be disciplined by (a) suspension and (b) dismissal than white members of staff. [82229]

  Mr. Denham
  The Department does not collect the data requested. Ministers are, however, concerned about the treatment of black and minority ethnic staff in the National Health Service and have a programme of action to tackle racism and end discrimination in the service.

  In order to inform that programme, the Department commissioned Industrial Relations Services Research to undertake a survey of NHS trusts in England published in August last year, "Equal Opportunities and monitoring in NHS trusts", available from the Department of Health, Wetherby. This survey showed that 98 per cent. of NHS trusts have an equal opportunities in employment policy, but only a minority monitor promotions, redundancies, dismissals or training from an equal opportunities perspective. The survey has provided a baseline against which we are now able to measure progress and set targets for raising standards in employment practice.

  As part of the modernisation of the NHS, the Government has published "Working Together—Securing a quality workforce for the NHS", the first human resources framework for the NHS published September 1998. This framework sets targets for reducing racial harassment of staff by colleagues and service users, and increasing ethnic minority representation in the work-force. By April 2000, local NHS employers are to have policies and procedures in place to tackle racial harassment, supported by monitoring and reporting arrangements to measure progress. They must also demonstrate that they are making progress year on year in achieving a more representative work-force.

  Beta Interferon
  Mr. Waterson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make it his policy to collect statistics on the prescribing and dispensing of Beta Interferon for MS sufferers in the NHS. [82642]

  Mr. Denham
  We will continue to collect statistics on all drugs prescribed by general practitioners, including Beta Interferon, which are dispensed in the community. We do not collect statistics on drugs dispensed in hospitals and do not anticipate being in a position to do so for some time.

  Renal Services
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps he is taking to improve renal services in East Lancashire; and if he will make a statement. [82846]

  Mr. Hutton
  The four health authorities in Lancashire and South Cumbria, working together and with the National Health Service Executive North West, have identified capital investment of £1 million and revenue spending of approximately £1 million for 2000–01 to provide 15 additional dialysis stations. These facilities are
  63
  expected to be in place at the Royal Preston Hospital by next spring and will relieve pressure and lead to improvements in renal services throughout the area.

  Investing in Dentistry
  Mr. Rendel
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many applications have been received under the Investing in Dentistry initiative; how many applications have been(a) successful and (b) unsuccessful; how many are still being considered; and what is the value of the grants that have been awarded as a result of successful applications. [82683]

  Mr. Denham
  To date, a total of 696 Investing in Dentistry requests have been received, of which 282 have been approved for grants totalling over £8 million; 287 refused, and 127 are awaiting decision.

  Mr. Webb
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the bids which he has received from Avon health authority area under the Investing in Dentistry programme. [82900]

  Mr. Denham
  The investing in dentistry funding requests submitted by Avon Health Authority are as follows:

  Clifton, Bristol

  Easton, Bristol

  Filwood, Bristol

  Lawrence Weston, Bristol

  Bath (2 requests)

  Bedmister (2 requests)

  Bishopsworth

  Chew Magna

  Stockwood

  Weston-Super-Mare.

  Fair Trade Products
  Ms Ward
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to introduce fair trade products at(a) meetings, (b) events and (c) catering facilities within his Department. [82871]

  Ms Jowell
  I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given by my hon. Friend the Economic Secretary on 5 May 1999,Official Report, column 410.

  NHS Trusts
  Mr. Cummings
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many Executive Board members in NHS trusts received a one-off contribution to their pension funds in the last round of pay awards; and what was the total cost of such payments to the NHS. [83097]

  Mr. Denham
  Information on individual contributions to Executive Board members' pension funds is not available centrally.

  Mr. Cummings
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what advice he has given to NHS trusts in respect of pay awards to Executive Board members in the forthcoming pay round. [83098]
  64
  Mr. Denham
  The Chief Executive of the NHS wrote to all National Health Service trusts and health authorities on 1 February 1999 about pay for staff in 1999–2000. Setting out the Government's position on senior NHS managers' pay, he said:"The Government does not expect to see senior managers being awarded increases out of line with the rest of the public service. Further guidance will follow when the pay round for other staff is complete".

  National Institute for Clinical Excellence
  Ms Drown
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the scope for including tax and benefit considerations in NICE's assessments of the cost-effectiveness of drugs. [83027]

  Mr. Denham
  Ministers are considering the responses to the discussion document "Faster access to modern treatment", which set out detailed proposals for the appraisal by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence of the clinical cost effectiveness of new and existing interventions. There will be a further statement shortly.

  Dental Services
  Mr. Fearn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many dental practices providing national health service dental treatment there were in(a) the north-west of England and (b) London, in (i) 1996, (ii) 1997 and (iii) 1998; and what is the current figure. [82907]

  Mr. Denham
  The number of General Dental Service (GDS) dentists on a health authority (HA) list at December 1998 and in December in the years 1996 and 1997 in the North and West region health area and in the Greater London HAs area are shown in the table.

  General Dental Service: Number of dentists on a HA list at 31 December in each year from 1996 to 1998 inclusive

  North and West

  Greater London

  1996

  2,195

  2,848

  1997

  2,209

  2,946

  1998

  2,240

  3,010

  Note:

  Dentists includes principals, assistants and vocational dental practitioners.

  Mr. Fearn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what percentage of dental practices in(a) the north-west of England and (b) London, have (i) under 20 per cent., (ii)21–40 per cent.,(iii) 41–60 per cent., (iv) 61–80 per cent. and (v) 81–100 per cent. of the patients registered with them as national health service patients. [82906]

  Mr. Denham
  Information about dentists' private patients is not available centrally. The registration arrangements which these private patients have with their dentist may vary greatly. However, information is available for the average list size of registered National Health Service patients of General Dental Service (GDS) dentists.

  The average number of NHS patients registered per GDS principal dentist on a health authority (HA) list at 31 December 1998 was 1,481 in the North West region health area, 902 in the Greater London HAs area, and for England the corresponding average is 1,341. Dentists are

  65
  counted in each HA in which they practice and some dentists had no registrations on that date. Differences between these averages will reflect not only differences in the level of dentists' commitment to the GDS but also, other circumstances, for example the number of support staff.

  Mr. Fearn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will estimate the percentage of all dental treatment provided by the national health service in(a) the north-west of England and (b) London. [83018]

  Mr. Denham
  Gross fee expenditure in the General Dental Service for the year 1998–99 in the North and West region health area was £202.5 million and the Greater London Health Authorities was £211.4 million. These represent 15 per cent. and 16 per cent. respectively of gross fee expenditure in England.

  Correspondence
  Mr. Gamier
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) when he intends to reply to the letter from the hon. and learned Member for Harborough dated 20 January; [83065]

  (2) when the Minister of State, the hon. Member for Southampton, Itchen (Mr. Denham), intends to reply to the letter from the hon. and learned Member for Harborough dated 19 January. [83064]

  Mr. Denham
  I replied to the hon. and learned Member on 30 April.

  Sir Brian Mawhinney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health when the right hon. Member for North-West Cambridgeshire can expect a reply to his letter of 12 February on behalf of Dr Kravitz. [83752]

  Ms Jowell
  My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State replied to the right hon. Member on 7 May.

  Hepatitis C
  Mr. Godsiff
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health for what reason the study tracing people who might have contracted hepatitis C from blood transfusions did not also trace those people with haemophilia who contracted hepatitis C through blood product treatments. [82885]

  Mr. Hutton
  The study to trace people who might have developed hepatitis C following blood transfusion focused on those who were unlikely to have remained under clinical care and who could benefit from treatment which had then become available. As haemophiliacs are in constant contact with their clinicians, the need to include them in the tracing exercise did not arise as they would have already been known to the service. It was implicit in the hepatitis C exercise that anyone who was concerned about their hepatitis C virus status could request a test.

  Osteoporosis
  Dr. Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if the Royal College of Physicians publication, "Osteoporosis: Clinical Guidelines for Prevention and Treatment", will be given official status in Ministers' advice to health authorities. [82890]
  66
  Ms Jowell
  The Royal College of Physicians clinical guidelines for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, and the desktop guide for general practitioners and primary care teams, offer advice on effectiveness to inform clinical decisions.

  The Department highly recommends both documents as a basis for developing local osteoporosis strategies, and where strategies already exist would expect them to be consistent with this guidance.

  The Department has brought the RCP document on osteoporosis, launched last June, to the attention of the National Health Service through Health Service Circular 1998/124, and through two articles in the Chief Medical Officer's Update.

  NHS Costs
  Mr. Denis Murphy
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what will be the total operating and maintenance costs of the national health service network in the current financial year.[83026]

  Mr. Denham
  NHSnet is a managed service provided to National Health Service organisations by commercial contractors who funded its development and meet its operating and maintenance costs. Those costs are confidential to the contractors.

  The charges levied by these contractors for using NHSnet are met centrally and consist of connection charges and messaging charges. Estimates for the current financial year are: NHSnet connection charges—£8.8 million; messaging charges—£4.3 million.

  Glaucoma
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what estimate he has made of the number of cases of glaucoma which are likely to be identified following the reintroduction of free eye tests for pensioners. [82918]

  Mr. Denham
  We do not know how many people aged 60 and over have already been having regular sight tests or how many of the remainder will take up the opportunity of a free National Health Service sight test but, within these uncertainties, we estimate that optometrists could refer an additional 2,000 patients presenting signs of glaucoma.

  Human Insulin
  Mr. Flynn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) on what research into the potential merits and negative effects of genetically engineered human insulin the decision to instruct NHS purchasers to cease to buy animal insulins and to transfer diabetics to genetically engineered human insulin was based; [83337]

  (2) what guidance his Department gives to clinicians concerning the relative merits and negative effects of genetically engineered human insulin and animal insulin. [83338]

  Mr. Hutton
  Decisions as to the most suitable type of insulin for particular patients are matters for the clinicians involved, in discussion with their patients. The Department has not issued guidance to clinicians on the relative merits of human and animal insulin, and it has
  67
  given no instructions to the National Health Service about their use. The Committee on Safety of Medicines will continue to monitor closely the safety of insulins.

  Open Government
  Dr. David Clark
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many applications for information he received under the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information in the last parliamentary session; and how many of these applications were granted. [83114]

  Ms Jowell
  For monitoring purposes, this information is collected on a calendar year basis. Information for 1997 was published last year in the Open Government Code of Practice on Access to Government Information 1997 Report. In 1998, the Department received 40 applications for information under the Code. We do not keep figures centrally on how many were granted the information requested.

CHURCH COMMISSIONERS

  Social Housing
  Mr. Corbyn
  To ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what sources of advice are available to the Church Commissioners on the need of social housing in inner-urban areas. [82617]

  Mr. Stuart Bell
  The Commissioners retain a portfolio of 1,591 units of residential property, known as the Octavia Hill Estates, in central London. These properties are let on Fair and Assured rents largely to people who are unable to afford market rents elsewhere in the private rented sector. The properties are managed from local offices and all administer a direct access waiting list. There are very few vacancies within the portfolio and the demand for our accommodation always outweighs supply.

  Applications for accommodation are received from a variety of sources including personal callers, local authority and HOMES nominations.

  Staffs in the local offices are all members of the Chartered Institute of Housing and are in touch with developments in Government Policy in this field.

  British Aerospace
  Mr. Hoyle
  To ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, if he will make a statement on the sale of British Aerospace shares by the Church of England; [82618]

  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what factors the commissioners took into account when deciding to dispose of its holding in BAe. [82621]

  Mr. Stuart Bell
  The Church's long-standing ethical investment policy is not to invest in companies whose main business or focus is in armaments, and shares in British Aerospace have never been held for this reason.

  In view of the proposed sale of Marconi Defence Systems, the defence arm of GEC, to British Aerospace, the Church of England's Ethical Investment Working
  68
  Group has recommended to the Church's central investing bodies that they do not retain shares acquired in "new British Aerospace", as a result of the sale.

  Risk Assessments
  Mr. Ben Chapman
  To ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, if he will make a statement on the commissioners' plans to encourage parishes to carry out risk assessments in relation to crime against churches. [82619]

  Mr. Stuart Bell
  Guidance to parishes on church security is given through the publications of the Council for the Care of Churches. Its booklet "Safe and Sound: a Guide to Church Security", was sent to all incumbents some three years ago. This booklet addresses the complex problems of security in churches, and specifically recommends the establishment of church watch schemes.

  In my answer to my hon. Friend on 22 February 1999, Official Report, column 16, I gave details of the Church Risk Management Group in the Diocese of Leicester, which is an admirable scheme for advising parishes on potential risks. Details of the scheme have already been given to other dioceses. Similar schemes are in force in other parts of the country.

  Church Repairs
  Miss McIntosh
  To ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what plans the commissioners have to give assistance to churches for the cost of repairs. [82620]

  Mr. Stuart Bell
  Responsibility for the maintenance of Church of England churches in use for worship rests with the parochial church councils concerned and not with the Commissioners, who have no general statutory power to assist. The Commissioners main spending priorities are the support of the serving clergy, clergy pensioners and their dependents.

  Commission Properties (Essex)
  Mr. Amess
  To ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners, what recent representations he has received on the state of the commission's properties in Essex. [82622]

  Mr. Stuart Bell
  No representations have been received by the Church Commissioners on either their agricultural holdings or commercial properties in Essex.

PRIME MINISTER

  Kosovo
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Prime Minister if it is a precondition for a cessation of air hostilities in Kosovo that all Kosovars be permitted a guaranteed return to their place of residence of March 1999. [83729]

  The Prime Minister
  The NATO Summit statement issued on 23 April spelt out clearly that there could be no compromise on a number of conditions including the need for President Milosevic to agree to the unconditional and safe return of all refugees and displaced persons. The statement said that, as long as Belgrade fails to meet
  69
  the legitimate demands of the international community and continues to inflict immense human suffering, Alliance air operations will continue. This remains the position.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Prime Minister what is his policy on the partition of Kosovo. [83403]

  The Prime Minister
  We are seeking a political solution to the crisis based on the Rambouillet Accords. The partition of Kosovo is not on our agenda.

  Spain
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Prime Minister for what reason Spain was decided upon as the partner for co-operation in a working group on employment and economic reform; to what extent Gibraltar will feature in this; and what will be the budget. [83742]

  The Prime Minister
  The Government build alliances with other Member States on a range of issues under discussion in the EU both to deepen bilateral relations and to influence the wider EU debate. Work with Spain on employment and economic reform is one example, reflecting a shared approach on many of these issues. The Working Group was established to bring together various strands of existing collaborative work. There is no requirement for a dedicated budget. Gibraltar will not be a focus of the Group's work.

  Romania
  Mr. Mackinlay
  To ask the Prime Minister if he discussed Romania's application to join Nato during his recent visit to Bucharest; and if he will make a statement. [83580]

  The Prime Minister
  In my speech to the Romanian Parliament I said that Romania was at the forefront of the aspiring NATO members, that I wanted Romania to be on a fast track to NATO membership, and that I was confident that Romania would be one of the next countries to be admitted as a full member of the Alliance.

  Government Policy Presentation (Europe)
  Mr. Mitchell
  To ask the Prime Minister (1) what instructions he has given to Ministers and civil servants 70
  about their influence on public opinion towards (a) the European Union and (b) British membership of the euro; [81431]

  (2) what instructions he has given about the media presentation of (a) issues concerning the European Union and (b) British membership of the euro. [81433]

  The Prime Minister
  Our relationship with our European partners is based upon principles of positive engagement and co-operation. This has enabled us to strengthen our influence in Europe without compromising our national interests.

  To help support this new constructive relationship a Ministerial Group for European Co-ordination (MINECOR) was established in December 1998. The members of the MINECOR group are Ministers from all UK Government departments which have an interest in European policy issues. The objective of the group is to achieve greater co-ordination of the presentation of HMG's European policies both within the UK and overseas. To that end, the group considers papers which give guidance to Ministers and officials on the presentation of government policy on Europe. The group also monitors Government efforts to develop closer co-operation with other EU partners and EU applicant countries. The group meets on a regular basis and is chaired by the Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, my right hon. Friend the Member for Gateshead, East and Washington, West (Ms Quin).

  The Government's policy on the euro was set out by my right hon. Friend, the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his statement to the House on 27 October 1997, Official Report, columns 583–88.

  All contacts with the media and the public are carried out in accordance with the requirements of the Ministerial Code and the Civil Service Guidance on the Work of the Government Information Service offers additional guidance on the presentation of Government policy and information through the media, publicity and advertising.

  Radioactive Waste
  Mr. Grieve
  To ask the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on Government responsibility after 1 July, for the authorisation for disposal of radioactive waste, subject to the Radioactive Substances Act 1993, which originates in Scotland but is disposed of in England.[83710]

  The Prime Minister
  I refer the hon. Member to the letter I wrote to him on 6 May, a copy of which has been placed in the Library.

NORTHERN IRELAND

  Factory Inspectors
  Mr. Clapham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many factory inspectors there are in Northern Ireland; and how many are trained in the health and safety aspects of asbestos removal. [83061]

  Mr. Ingram
  At present there are 32 Health and Safety Inspectors covering the employment sectors for which the HSENI has responsibility.

  Two Health and Safety Inspectors have received training in the safety aspects of asbestos removal, one of whom is the Principal Inspector with responsibility for occupational health issues.

  Asbestos Removal Companies
  Mr. Clapham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many certified asbestos removal companies operate in Northern Ireland; and how many were visited by a factory inspector in the last year for which figures are available. [83062]

  Mr. Ingram
  On 31 March 1999, 23 companies were licensed to undertake work with asbestos insulation or asbestos coating in Northern Ireland.

  During the year 1 April 1998 to 31 March 1999, 12 of the 23 companies were visited by a Health and Safety Inspector and 23 site inspections were carried out.

  Health and Safety Executive
  Mr. Clapham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many extra inspectors the Health and Safety Executive in Northern Ireland aims to recruit. [83063]

  Mr. Ingram
  The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland was established on 1 April 1999. Its board is currently considering the recommendations of the report of a needs analysis carried out by J. Rimington, a former Director General of the Health and Safety Executive. The outcome of these deliberations will advise future policy as regards the recruitment of extra Inspectors.

  Planning
  Mr. Hume
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the planning services and procedures for enforcement indicating the 72
  priority given to ensuring enforcement of planning conditions laid down by the Planning Appeals Commission. [82920]

  Mr. Paul Murphy
  It is the responsibility of the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland under the Planning (NI) Order 1991, where it considers it expedient to do so, to take enforcement action against all breaches of planning control. Each case is considered on its merits and no special priority is given to ensuring enforcement of conditions laid down by the Planning Appeals Commission.

  Mr. Hume
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the Planning Appeals Commission's handling of recent cases in Derry. [82903]

  Mr. Paul Murphy
  In the last year, in the Derry District Council Area, the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) heard 22 appeals. Of these, 18 were allowed and 4 dismissed. The PAC also held 2 inquiries on which the Department of the Environment (NI) has now made its decisions. In one case, the Department accepted the recommendation of the PAC to grant planning permission; in the other, although the PAC recommended that the application should be refused, the Department, having considered all relevant planning issues, concluded that planning permission should be granted.

  The PAC is an entirely independent body and it would not be appropriate for the Secretary of State to comment on the handling of cases by the PAC or on the merits of PAC decisions.

  University First Degree Courses
  Mr. Hume
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many students, normally domiciled in the Western Education and Library Board area are currently enrolled in full-time university first degree courses; and what is the number of full-time university first degree places in the Western Education and Library Board area. [82921]

  Mr. McFall
  The information is not available in the form requested. However there are 5,511 students domiciled in the Western Education and Library Board area currently receiving financial support to attend full-time first degree courses at universities in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

  The only university site located in the Western Education and Education Library Board is the Magee campus of the University of Ulster. There are currently 1,292 students enrolled on full-time first degree courses at the Magee campus.

  Israel
  Israel
  Sudan
  Sudan
  Kosovo Liberation Army
  Kosovo Liberation Army
  Turkey and Northern Iraq
  Turkey and Northern Iraq
  Burma
  Burma
  Former Yugoslavia: Refugees
  Former Yugoslavia: Refugees
  Palestinian Authority: EU Aid
  Palestinian Authority: EU Aid
  Hurricane Mitch: EU Aid
  Hurricane Mitch: EU Aid
  Algeria and Morocco: EU Aid
  Algeria and Morocco: EU Aid
  Human Rights Act 1998: Judicial Training
  Human Rights Act 1998: Judicial Training
  Criminal Justice (Terrorism and Conspiracy) Act 1998
  Criminal Justice (Terrorism and Conspiracy) Act 1998
  Immigration and Nationality Directorate: Computerisation
  Immigration and Nationality Directorate: Computerisation
  "Extreme Right-wing": Definition
  "Extreme Right-wing": Definition
  Racial Discrimination: Report to UN
  Racial Discrimination: Report to UN
  Data Protection Act: Subordinate Legislation
  Data Protection Act: Subordinate Legislation
  London Telephone Boxes: Unauthorised Advertising
  London Telephone Boxes: Unauthorised Advertising
  Special Educational Needs: Scotland
  Special Educational Needs: Scotland
  Iraq: Depleted Uranium-based Ammunition
  Iraq: Depleted Uranium-based Ammunition
  Military Survey and JARIC Defence Agencies
  Military Survey and JARIC Defence Agencies
  Medicines Control Agency Consultation
  Medicines Control Agency Consultation
  EU Current, Account and Unemployment Percentages
  EU Current, Account and Unemployment Percentages
  Asbestos Directive
  Asbestos Directive
  M.4: Roadworks
  M.4: Roadworks
  Trafalgar Square: Pedestrianisation
  Trafalgar Square: Pedestrianisation
  Flood Defence
  Flood Defence
  Channel Islands and Isle of Man
  Channel Islands and Isle of Man
  Starred Questions
  Starred Questions
  Isabel Allende
  Isabel Allende