§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many special advisers have worked for Ministers in his Department since 1 May 1997; and on what date each of these special advisers was appointed to their post. [93881]
§ Dr. ReidBetween 1 May 1997 and 6 April 1999, four Special Advisers have worked for Ministers in the former Scottish Office. Ms Wendy Alexander and Mr. Murray Elder were appointed on 5 May 1997. Ms Alexander resigned on 31 December 1998 and Mr. Elder resigned on 6 April 1999 prior to the Scottish Parliament Election. Mr. David Whitton was appointed on 5 May 1998 and Ms Elsbeth Johnson on 1 February 1999. Both resigned on 6 April 1999.
My current Special Advisers in the Scotland Office are Mr. Richard Olszewski, appointed on 17 May 1999, Mr. Mike Elrick, appointed on 14 June 1999 and Professor Mike Donnelly, appointed on 24 June 1999. Professor Donnelly will work in an unpaid capacity.