§ Mrs. MayTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions how many members of staff have been suspended on full pay in each of the last five years; and how many were subsequently reinstated. [41994]
§ Mr. Byers[holding answer 11 March 2002]: There have been a small number of cases over the last five years, in which members of staff have been suspended on full pay, eg if alleged gross misconduct or criminal offences need to be investigated. Papers relating to such cases are kept separately and only added to personal files in the event that the allegations are proven. In the event that the allegations are unfounded and the individual is reinstated, any papers relating to the investigation are destroyed. It is not therefore possible to answer the question in the form requested.