§ Mr. Don FosterTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (1) what plans he has to reorganise the Press Office at the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions; and if he will make a statement; [29983]
(2) what civil service procedures were followed in the interviewing and appointment of a new Head of Media at the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions; [29984]
(3) when he expects to announce the appointment of a new Head of Media at the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions; [29985]
(4) if he will list each meeting he has had since 1 December 2001 with the Director of Communications of the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions; and what was the subject of each meeting. [29982]
§ Dr. WhiteheadThe appointment was announced on 21 January. It was made following an open competition for the post under the procedures in the Civil Service Commissioners' Recruitment Code.
My right hon. Friend meets his Director of Communication on a regular basis to discuss relevant issues. Organisational matters within the Department are a matter for the permanent secretary, who consults my right hon. Friend in accordance with the practice of successive Administrations.