§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (1) how many meetings have taken place in the last year between(a) Ministers and (b) civil servants and representatives from the aviation industry; [34135]
(2) how many meetings have taken place in the last year between (a) Ministers and (b) civil servants and representatives from non-governmental organisations regarding the environmental impact of the aviation industry. [34134]
§ Mr. SpellarMinisters and civil servants meet many people as part of the process of policy development and analysis. All such contacts are conducted in accordance with the Ministerial Code, the Civil Service Code and Guidance for Civil Servants: Contacts with Lobbyists. Some of these discussions take place on a confidential basis, and in order to preserve confidentiality, it is not the normal practice of Governments to release details of specific meetings with private individuals or companies.