HL Deb 29 November 2000 vol 619 c143WA
The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the operations of the Strategic Communications Unit in producing the Eurogrid are consistent with their policy towards freedom of information. [HL4769]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

Yes. The operations of the Strategic Communications Unit are in agreement with the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will name the staff of the Strategic Communications Unit responsible for the Eurogrid. [HL4770]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

The European News Grid is produced by staff at the FCO, No 10 and Cabinet Office, in consultation with other government departments. It is not our practice to name individual officials.

The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

To whom or to which authority the Strategic Communications Unit is accountable for the operation of the Eurogrid. [HL4771]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

The Minister for Europe is responsible for the European News Grid.

The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the annual cost of running the Eurogrid. [HL4772]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

There are no specific costs associated with work on the European News Grid, which is compiled as part of normal working practices.

The Earl of Northesk

asked Her Majesty's Government:

To what extent the Eurogrid contains "lines to take" on potential news stories emanating from the European Union. [HL4773]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

The European News Grid does not include "lines to take".