HC Deb 17 December 2001 vol 377 cc95-6W
Angus Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many people outside the United Kingdom have signed up to the Friends of Scotland initiative since it was launched. [23605]

Mrs. Liddell

There is no requirement for people abroad to "sign up" to the Friends of Scotland initiative. I have contacted diplomatic missions to inform them of the initiative and to seek their assistance in taking it forward.

Angus Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many Scotland Office staff members are working full-time in the Friends of Scotland unit. [23602]

Mrs. Liddell

Currently there are two full-time officials working on the Friends of Scotland initiative. Recruitment of further staff is under way and secondments from the private sector are being explored.

Angus Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many target overseas participants the Scotland Office has for the Friends of Scotland initiative in the first(a) six months and (b) 12 months of operation. [23601]

Mrs. Liddell

The first meeting of the advisory committee will take place on Tuesday 18 December, at which the issues and targets will be discussed.