HL Deb 21 February 2000 vol 610 cc8-9WA
The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Lord Falconer of Thoroton on 31 January (WA 12), in what way "strengthening the centre of Government to co-ordinate and oversee the delivery of policy is quite different from the Government's programme of devolution and local government reform"; and [HL921]

Whether the increased use and cost of special advisers as a means of "strengthening the centre to ensure a firm political focus and greater co-ordination in the work of this Administration" (HC Deb., 2 February, 645W) is consistent with their programme of devolution and local government reform; and, if so, in what way. [HL996]

The Minister of State, Cabinet Office (Lord Falconer of Thoroton)

Our decision to have a strong centre to provide strategic focus and drive to the work of this Administration is not inconsistent with our programme of devolution and local government reform, which is bringing decision-making closer to local people.

The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there have been any instances where the terms of the Model Contract for Special Advisers have been substantively varied to accommodate the specific requirements of any individual; and, if so, in what respect. [HL923]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

Significant variations have been made in respect of four appointments: the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff and Chief Press Secretary to reflect the fact that they are not restricted to an advisory role, and the UK Anti-Drugs Coordinator and his deputy to reflect their cross-governmental advisory role in tackling drugs related issues.

The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Lord Falconer of Thoroton on 8 February (WA 77) that "The Government are not accountable for the costs of any staff working in No. 10 who are paid for by the Labour Party", how many staff paid by the Labour Party are working in No. 10. [HL1000]

The Lord Falconer of Thoroton

10 staff are employed by the Labour Party in the Political Office in No. 10.