HC Deb 09 February 2000 vol 344 cc169-70W
Mr. Gordon Prentice

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how much he has spent on counsel's opinion in respect of securing statements of compatibility of public bills with the requirements of the Human Rights Act 1998. [108757]

Mr. Straw

Statements under section 19 express the Minister's view as to whether the provisions of a Bill are compatible with the Convention. Each Department is responsible for seeking its own advice before making a section 19 statement. No money has been spent by the Home Office on counsel's fees for the immediate purpose of making such statements. But in forming a view as to a Bill's compatibility, the Minister will take into account all the legal advice available to the Department, including any advice from outside Counsel, where appropriate. Such advice may be obtained in relation to a specific issue or have been given, for example, in the context of relevant litigation.

Mr. Gordon Prentice

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will place in the Library copies of the paper setting out the basis for statements of compatibility of Public Bills with the Human Rights Act 1998. [108756]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

Copies of the revised guidance to Departments have been placed in the Library.