HL Deb 25 February 2002 vol 631 cc203-4WA
Lord Wedderburn of Charlton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether any businessmen or persons with a background or training in industry have been appointed in any capacity to work or advise in the Department of Trade and Industry in relation to the Secretary of State's announcements of 22 November 2001: if so, what are their identities, their functions, and their terms and dates of appointment; whether any of such persons have functions or responsibilities that touch on the work of the employment tribunals or the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service or other core services; and whether any representatives of employees or trade unions have been appointed with similar functions. [HL26801]

Lord Sainsbury of Turville

There have, as yet, been no appointments made in relation to my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry's announcement of 22 November 2001.

The independent member appointments to the new strategy board are currently advertised on the department's website, which includes an information pack containing details of the full appointment procedure, the job and person specification and how to apply. The information pack also explains the process of appointing independent members to an executive board, chaired by the Permanent Secretary, and to other boards across the department. The final appointments will be announced during May.