HL Deb 13 March 2002 vol 632 cc90-1WA
Lord Patten

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their definition of the word "resignation" in the public service. [HL2927]

The Minister for the Cabinet Office and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Lord Macdonald of Tradeston)

The Civil Service Management Code sets out the terms and conditions of civil servants, including resignation from the Civil Service.

Lord Patten

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will set up a Royal Commission to consider the independence of the Civil Service from political interference; and, if not, why not. [HL2928]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

We are already committed to maintaining the political impartiality of the Civil Service and to introducing legislation for the Civil Service. We are also committed to wide consultation in advance of the legislation.