HC Deb 05 June 2000 vol 351 cc94-5W
Mr. Peter Ainsworth

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will publish the minutes of the Millennium Commission meeting on 22 May. [124061]

Mr. Chris Smith

This is a matter for the Millennium Commission. I will 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.

Mr. Peter Ainsworth

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport if he will set out the distinction between his role as Chairman of the Millennium Commission and his role as Secretary of State, with particular reference to the avoidance of conflicting interests. [124062]

Mr. Chris Smith

The roles of Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (previously National Heritage) and Chairman of the Millennium Commission are separate and distinct, but have run in tandem since the Millennium Commission was established in 1994. The Millennium Commission is an independent body, with the status of a body corporate. Each of the nine Commissioners, including myself as Chairman, have equal status.

Both roles are governed by strict rules covering conflicts of interest—namely the Ministerial Code: A Code of conduct and Guidance on Procedures for Ministers; and the Code of Conduct for members of the Millennium Commission.