Written Answers of 15 January 2003

CABINET OFFICE

  Departmental Staff
  Mr. Cousins
  To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what the distribution of his Department's whole-time equivalent staff was, including the staff in agencies and other bodies reporting to him, in each Government office region and nation of the UK(a) in 1996 and (b) at the most recent available period. [90467]

  Mr. Alexander
  The numbers of staff in each Department (including its agencies) are shown in tables, copies of which have been placed in the Libraries of the House. The figures show the data at the 1 April each year, and are based on the full-time equivalent figures for the number of permanent staff in each Department, rounded to the nearest 10. Data are shown by Government Office Region, with columns giving the total number of staff in England and the UK.

HOUSE OF COMMONS COMMISSION

  Westminster Hall
  Janet Anderson
  To ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission if he will make a statement on his plans for Westminster Hall. [89869]

  Sir Archy Kirkwood
  The Commission has no plans for Westminster Hall. It has, however, been aware of growing pressure for the better welcome and reception of constituents and other visitors to the Palace of Westminster and to give them a better understanding of the work of Parliament. The Commission agrees with the Select Committee on the Modernisation of the House of Commons that a Visitor Centre would be desirable; such facilities are provided in many other Parliaments around the world. We therefore commissioned a feasibility study from the consultants Haley Sharpe and the conservation architects Purcell Miller Tritton. That study reviewed options for the siting of such a centre, and proposed a scheme consisting of a new security/reception building at the western end of the Jubilee Cafe and elements of a Visitor Centre in the accommodation outside the west wall of Westminster Hall, with the option of providing further facilities in Victoria Tower Gardens.

  The Commission considered the consultants' report, recognised the sensitivity of the Westminster Hall location, and asked the consultants to carry out further studies of possible sites outside the Parliamentary Estate. In due course the Commission will consider the results of these studies, together with the views of the Modernisation and Finance and Services Committees, the Domestic Committees, the Speaker's Advisory
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  Committee on Works of Art, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association United Kingdom Branch, the Inter-Parliamentary Union British Group and individual hon. Members. Any final decision would need to be agreed with the authorities of the House of Lords.

  Doorkeepers
  Mr. Peter Pike
  To ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission, what the main differences are between the pay and conditions of employment of the newly recruited doorkeepers of the House and those employed under the previous system; and if he will make a statement. [90123]

  Sir Archy Kirkwood
  The main difference between the conditions of employment of doorkeepers recruited since March 1998 and those employed before that date is their substantive pay band. This followed the Staff Inspector's review of the doorkeepers (completed in April 1997). I have asked the Director of Finance and Administration to write to the hon. Member with more detail.

  Line of Route
  Mr. Andrew Turner
  To ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission, what estimate he has made of the number of hon. Members whose constituents could gain access to the line of route, including the House of Commons, on a Wednesday(a) in 2002, and (b) in 2003, having travelled by public transport (i) without and (ii) with the use, where eligible, of railway Network cards. [89777]

  Sir Archy Kirkwood
  In 2002, 42 Wednesday mornings were available for tours and approximately 600 visitors a day were accommodated. In 2003, it is estimated that 41 Wednesday mornings will be available for tours and that 740 constituents a day could have access to the Line of Route, with a further 1,200 on Wednesday afternoons during Adjournments. This greater throughput is possible due to a more efficient operation following the creation of the Central Tours Office.

  It is not possible to forecast the impact of railway network cards, but for guidance, groups would need to arrive at the Palace by 9.15 am on Wednesdays to complete a tour which includes the Chamber. Access to the Line of Route is available on tours booked with the Central Tours Office until 1200 on Wednesdays, although these tours exclude the House of Commons Chamber.

  Mr. Evans
  To ask the hon. Member for Roxburgh and Berwickshire, representing the House of Commons Commission how many hours per week the Line of Route(a) was open before the change in working hours of the Commons and (b) is open after the change in working hours of the Commons. [90258]

  Sir Archy Kirkwood
  The Line of Route was open for the following hours per week before the change in sitting hours:

  in a week with a non-sitting Friday: 17 hours 30 minutes,

  in a week with a sitting Friday: 11 hours 30 minutes.

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  Following the change in sitting hours of this House, and the decision of the House of Lords to sit on Thursday mornings, the Line of Route is now open:
  in a week with a non-sitting Friday: 10 hours 40 minutes plus 5 hours 20 minutes of Line of Route not including the Chamber.
  in a week with a sitting Friday: 4 hours 40 minutes plus 5 hours 20 minutes of Line of Route not including the Chamber.

ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS

  Water Charges
  Mr. Sheerman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what protection there is for consumers against overcharging by water companies. [89537]

  Mr. Morley
  The Director General of Water Services (Ofwat) regulates water and sewerage charges by setting a limit on the average increase in charges that a company can impose in any year. Companies may only charge households in accordance with charges schemes approved by Ofwat. In exercising his powers the Director General seeks to ensure that there is no undue preference or undue discrimination in the fixing of charges.

  Mr. Sheerman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what requirements are placed on water companies on explaining charges to customers when compiling customer invoices. [89560]

  Mr. Morley
  Water companies must set out the basis on which they set their charges in charges schemes, which require annual approval by the Director General of Water Services (Ofwat). Charges schemes are available from companies free on request. Water companies have changed the presentation of customers' bills to meet comments from Ofwat and WaterVoice.

  Carbon Emissions
  Mr. Lazarowicz
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she is taking to measure carbon emissions from the(a) farming and (b) food industries. [87266]

  Mr. Meacher
  As a signatory to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol, the UK is required annually to compile an inventory of emissions by sources and removals by sinks of the greenhouse gases not controlled by the Montreal Protocol.

  The main greenhouse gases emitted from farming are methane from enteric fermentation in livestock and agricultural waste disposal, and nitrous oxide from fertiliser use. There are also emissions of carbon dioxide from agricultural energy use and liming of soils. Emissions are calculated from agricultural data including animal numbers and fertiliser usage produced by DEFRA, energy statistics from DTI, plus factors to relate these data to actual emissions. The data are recorded in the UK greenhouse gas inventory and show that overall emissions from agriculture fell by about
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  11.5 per cent. between 1990 and 2000. Agriculture also contributes to emissions from land use change, which fell by about 20 per cent. over the same period.

  Greenhouse gas emissions for the food industry are not identified separately in the inventory, although they are included with other industrial emissions. Separate studies undertaken by my Department suggest that end user carbon dioxide emissions from energy use in the food industry fell by about 25 per cent. over the period 1990 to 2000. This includes the food industry's share of emissions at power stations due to electricity generation, and it is the fall in power station emissions due to fuel switching that is main reason for the decrease in emissions from this sector.

  Departmental Expenditure (Newsprint)
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the total expenditure of her Department was on newspapers, magazines and periodicals. [90524]

  Alun Michael
  The Department's expenditure on newspapers, periodicals and magazines in the financial year 2001–02 was £127,470. This figure covers central purchasing through Defra's library services. This excludes the costs of newspapers, periodicals and newspapers purchased in Defra local offices and in the Department's Executive Agencies. These figures could be compiled only at disproportionate cost.

  Farm Business Advice Service
  Mr. Peter Duncan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many farmers were assisted by the Farm Business Advice Service in the last 12 months. [90395]

  Mr. Morley
  Between January and December 2002 the Farm Business Advice Service for farmers in England has received 3,011 requests. A total of 2,895 first visits have taken place and 2,739 action/whole farm recovery plans have been completed.

  Flooding
  Mr. Goodman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what effect the operations of the Environment Agency have had on the levels of flooding in the Medmenham area and Marlow. [89762]

  Mr. Morley
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: Rainfall over the final days of December and the beginning of January was close to the average for the whole month of December. This fell on a saturated catchment in which rivers were already running bankfull. Under these circumstances, there is little that can be done by the Agency to alleviate flooding if defences are not already in place. Early indications are that this was the third most severe floods in this area since records began in 1882, being exceeded only by the floods of 1894 and 1947. In recent years, the Agency has conducted public awareness campaigns to make those at risk aware of that risk and to provide information and advice on how people can help themselves. In this instance, the Agency takes the view that their operations will have had no adverse effects on river levels either in Medmenham or Marlow.
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  Mr. Goodman
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what effect the Jubilee River relief scheme has had on flooding in the Medmenham area and Marlow. [89763]

  Mr. Morley
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: The Jubilee River provides flood relief for Maidenhead, Windsor and Eton and several smaller villages nearby. Extra flood defences in the form of flood banks were constructed in Cookham to reduce the risk to this village. Marlow is 5 km upstream of Cookham and Medmenham further upstream and., as such, the Environment Agency takes the view that the Jubilee River has no impact, adverse or otherwise, on either community.

  Foot and Mouth
  Bob Spink
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will list sites in Essex where there is storage of(a) materials that could be contaminated by foot and mouth and (b) the products of the cattle slaughtering exercise undertaken as part of the foot and mouth control strategies. [88533]

  Mr. Morley
  The answer is as follows:

  (a) The Department is unaware of any sites in Essex where materials are stored that could be contaminated with the foot and mouth disease (FMD) virus. The last case of FMD in Essex was 20 months ago, in April 2001. The FMD virus survival period in environmental samples is believed to fall below infective levels well within this period and therefore the risk of FMD contamination in materials is negligible.

  (b) The only residues from cattle slaughtered during the FMD outbreak remaining on sites in Essex is pyre ash. This has been buried in accordance with DEFRA/Environment Agency guidance at four locations in Essex. These are sites on land at:

  (1) East Donyland, Colchester

  (2) Warley Street, Brentwood

  (3) North Fambridge, Chelmsford

  (4) Wethersfield, Braintree

  Details of the groundwater authorisations and locations of these sites can be found on the Environment Agency website.

  GM Crops
  Alan Simpson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many public meetings her officials have spoken at on the subject of genetically modified food and crops in each year since 1999; how many reports of such meetings have been written up by her officials; and if she will place copies of them in the Library. [86171]]

  Mr. Meacher
  On the specific issue of the Farm Scale Evaluation GM Crop trials, officials have spoken at public meetings organised either by the Department, or by parish councils in parishes where the trials were to take place. There were 14 such meetings in 2000, 15 in 2001 and five in 2002; none were held in 1999. Notes were produced by officials for 11 of these meetings. Copies will be placed in the Library. Officials have also 612W
  spoken on wider GM issues at a number of other public meetings since 1999, but official records on the number of, or reports of, the meetings are not kept.

  Poultry Meat Export Ban
  Mr. Edwards
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what action she will take to assist the UK hen processing industry in response to the Nigerian Government's ban on the import of frozen poultry meat; and what efforts are being made to ensure the speedy resumption of UK poultry meat exports to Nigeria. [88863]

  Mr. Morley
  Officials have pursued through the British High Commission the prospects of reopening the Nigerian market and an EU delegation has recently met Nigerian authorities. Our information is that there may be some scope for recommencing exports although officials here have asked the industry to check this through their trade contacts in Nigeria. Depending on the outcome of those inquiries, Defra officials are ready to make further inquiries through the British High Commission in Nigeria.

  Officials are also liasing with industry contacts about alternative methods of disposing of hen carcasses.

  Horse Passports
  Mr. Gray
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether the proposed horse passports scheme will allow the horse owner to opt not to sell the carcase for human consumption; whether such a declaration would last for the life of the horse; what restrictions are planned with regard to such animals being slaughtered in a normal abattoir; and if she will make a statement about horse passports. [89758]

  Mr. Morley
  The horse passport includes a declaration to be signed by the owner about whether or not the horse is intended for human consumption.

  If the owner declares that the horse is not intended for human consumption then the carcase cannot go for human consumption. Such a declaration, once made, cannot be changed during the lifetime of a horse. It is possible to change a declaration that a horse is intended for human consumption to say that the horse is not now intended for human consumption. Such a horse could not then be slaughtered for the human food chain.

  The proposed changes in the legislation relating to horse passports contain no changes to the legislation governing where horses may be slaughtered.

  Illegal Meat Imports
  Mr. Hurst
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how much illegal meat imports in weight were seized by customs officials at United Kingdom ports of entry in each year from 1995 to 2001. [87327]

  John Healey
  I have been asked to reply. Currently, the lead responsibility for detecting illegal imports of meat lies with Local and Port Health Authorities and Defra. Customs support and co-operate with these lead agencies both in joint exercises and by
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  seizing illegal meat when discovered in Customs checks. The Government has announced that all activity against smuggling of meat, animal products fish and plant matter will be brought together in Customs. Work on arrangements to effect this transfer has begun.

  Central records of Customs seizures of meat are only available from 2000. Weights recorded as seized by Customs in years ending 31 March are:

  Year

  Metric Tons

  2000–01

  2.655

  2001–02

  9.780

  Patrick Mercer
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she has to raise the awareness of restrictions she has enforced on meat imports. [87736]

  Mr Morley
  We have an ongoing campaign to highlight to travellers the risks posed by illegal imports. This has already used a variety of methods, including posters, leaflets, information videos, and interviews. Future publicity highlights include having a DEFRA presence at "Destinations 2003" and "The Holiday Show 2003". Our publicity campaign remains under constant review.

  Specifically to highlight the new rules, the poster detailing the personal allowances for personal imports of plant and animal products is being updated to reflect the new stricter EU rules on personal imports. It will be displayed at ports of entry into the UK and aimed at travellers arriving from outside the EU.

  We are continuing to work with our posts and embassies abroad to raise awareness of our import rules at points of departure.

  Job Sharing
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on the extent of job sharing in her Department. [90873]

  Alun Michael
  There are currently 83 people employed in Defra on a job share contract. Although vacant positions are not generally advertised on such a specific basis, applications are always welcomed from those wishing to work on a part-time or job share basis. It is departmental policy, as an equal opportunity employer, to meet requests for all types of flexible working, including part-time working and job sharing, wherever the nature of the work allows.

  Private Sewers
  Ms Walley
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions have taken place in the last six months between departmental officials and the Director General of OFWAT on the issue of the adoption of private sewers, with particular reference to the next price round. [89671]

  Mr. Morley
  OFWAT is involved in the steering group managing the work to establish the number, age, extent and condition of private sewers being undertaken by WS Atkins for my Department. This will contribute 614W
  to a consultation exercise on private sewers due to commence in the spring of 2003. Once the steering group has considered the response to that consultation, WS Atkins will then produce a final report, with recommendations. OFWAT will consider any effect on water bills as part of its periodic review of water price limits.

  Ms Walley
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what difficulties have been encountered by W. S. Atkins and her Department in identifying the location and the state of repair of private sewers; and what progress has been made. [89675]

  Mr. Morley
  W. S. Atkins have carried out a number of field studies at locations in England and Wales to validate the information contained in the postal surveys they undertook to try to establish the number, age, extent and condition of private sewers. A consultation paper will be issued by the Department in the spring which will contain the outcome of this work, including any difficulties they have discovered, and will seek views on possible solutions.

  Pesticides
  Mr. Breed
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what studies she has commissioned into the Voluntary Initiative programme to minimise the environmental impact of pesticides; what the terms of reference are; which body has been commissioned to undertake the studies; what the anticipated cost to the Department is; when she expects to receive the results; when they will be published; and if she will make a statement. [86748]

  Mr. Morley
  [holding answer 11 December 2002]: The Government are committed to minimising the adverse environmental impact of pesticide use, consistent with adequate crop protection. A voluntary agreement on measures to reduce the environmental damage caused by pesticides was entered into by the industry and other stakeholders in April 2001. Provided the Voluntary Initiative is fully implemented, it should reduce the environmental impacts of pesticides and the Government remain committed to this approach. However, the Government are carrying out further work and analysis on a possible tax or other economic instrument, should the Voluntary Initiative fail to deliver its objectives within a reasonable timescale.

  The study referred to in the question has not yet been commissioned. Officials are in the process of commissioning work to develop a framework to enable subsequent assessment of the Voluntary Initiative. This will complement the indicators and targets put together by the Voluntary Initiative Steering Group and will, in particular, enable a comparison of the environmental benefits of the Voluntary Initiative and of a possible pesticides tax. The study is intended to he completed by the summer and will subsequently be published.

  Pollution (Bassenthwaite)
  Tony Cunningham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) if she will instruct English Nature to prepare a report on the health, breeding and distribution of brown trout, sea
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  trout, salmon and other fish resident in Bassenthwaite Lake and the river system feeding the lake and flowing from it; [88350]

  (2) which statutory bodies have responsibility for (a) protecting water quality, (b) protecting aquatic species, (c) dealing with pollution and (d) protecting flora and fauna in the environment of Bassenthwaite Lake in Workington constituency; where responsibility lies in each case; [88352]

  (3) if she will seek a report from the Lake District National Park Authority on discharges of (a) untreated sewage and (b) other pollutants into Bassenthwaite Lake; what plans the Authority has to reduce discharge and remove phosphate deposits from the Lake; [88348]

  (4) what recent reports she has received from English Nature on the health of Vendace and the numbers of that species in Bassenthwaite Lake; [88351]

  (5) what reports she has received from the Environment Agency about levels of phosphate pollution and the incidence of algal blooms in Bassenthwaite Lake and the River Derwent; and if she will make a statement. [88349]

  Mr. Morley
  The statutory bodies that are principally responsible for water quality, species, pollution, and flora & fauna protection are the Environment Agency, English Nature and the Lake District National Park Authority.

  The Environment Agency is responsible for enforcing statutory controls on the entry of pollutants to controlled waters, and has specific duties in relation to protecting aquatic species. It is also the co-ordinator for the Bassenthwaite Lake Restoration Project that was set up last year to ensure an integrated approach to tackling the complex, longstanding pressures on the lake.

  All public bodies have a statutory duty to to take reasonable steps, consistent with the exercise of their functions, to further the conservation and enhancement of the features for which the lake has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Since the lake forms part of the River Derwent and Bassenthwaite Lake candidate Specal Area of Conservation, further duties on all statutory authorities in exercising their functions must have due regard to the requirements of the Habitats Directive.

  Given its central role in the restoration programme and its duties in relation to fisheries, the Environment Agency is best placed to report on the health, breeding and distribution of fish species. The Derwent Salmon Action Plan consultation document contains information on the salmon population status in the Derwent catchment for the period 1990 to 2000. For most years the population achieved a considerable surplus over its conservation target. The most recent reliable data (for 2000) shows that the population level was almost double the conservation limit, indicating the population to be in very good health.

  There is less information on the status of species in the lake but available evidence suggests that the Vendace population is low. This is thought to be due to siltation of their spawning grounds and competition and predation from alien species, probably introduced by anglers. Recent bye-laws regulating the use of dead and
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  live bait will control further introductions. The Environment Agency will be pleased to supply further information.

  The Agency can also supply details of permitted discharges. The condition of the lake is considered stable owing to improvements to Keswick sewage treatment works. Planned investment should deliver further improvements. The Environment Agency will consider what further improvements may be necessary for the investment period 2005–2010 and is carrying out a study to assess the potential for removal of phospherus in the lakebed sediment. Discharges of untreated sewage are very dilute and not thought to add significantly to the overall nutrient load.

  Diffuse sources of phosphorus and sediment pollution need to be addressed. Action under the restoration programme will need to include research to identify sources and causes of erosion and siltation; physical improvements to infrastructure including sewerage systems, farmsteads and highways; and improvements to agricultural practice through education and awareness campaigns.

  Occurrences of blue green algal blooms have been recorded on: 4 December 1998; 1 May 2000; 19 September 2000; and 20 September 2002. Controlling the total amount of phosphorus entering the lake will help to limit loads overall may reduce the frequency and extent of all types of algal bloom but will not eliminate them entirely sicne they are a natural feature of this type of lake and form as a result of the interaction of a number of variables including climatic conditions, lake chemistry, wind speed and hours of sunlight.

  Flood and Coastal Defence Funding Review
  Mr. Sayeed
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what decision has been made on reviewing the project appraisal guidance to ensure that social and environmental issues are addressed following the Flood and Coastal Defence Funding Review; [90813]

  (2) what conclusions have been reached concerning the establishment of a minimum standard of flood defence, following the Flood and Coastal Defence Funding Review; [90814]

  (3) when the Government's response to the Flood and Coastal Defence Funding Review will be published. [90815]

  Mr. Morley
  I expect to announce conclusions on the Flood and Coastal Defence Funding Review as soon as possible.

  However, the arrangements for prioritising Defra's funding of flood and coastal defence capital works have already been revised to take more specific account of "people" and environmental issues. For schemes considered for approval from April 2003, the priority scores will be based on economics, "people" issues and environmental protection and enhancement.

  With regard to a minimum standard of flood defence, we currently operate on the basis of permissive powers, which allows the Environment Agency and other operating authorities to take action where it is

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  considered justifiable against a range of criteria. This allows taxpayers' money to be spent where it is most needed, an approach overwhelmingly supported by respondents to our consultation on the review.

  Radioactive Waste Management
  Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what participation her Department plans to have in the European Commission's Net excel network of EUbased organisations responsible for radioactive waste management. [86139]

  Mr Meacher
  Net excel is an existing thematic network of excellence in nuclear waste management and disposal set up under the Euratom fifth framework programme for nuclear research and training. The consortium consists of eight radioactive waste management organisations from across Europe—Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Nirex from the UK. This Department has no direct participation, but we will be kept informed of the work leading to the report to the Commission towards the end of 2003.

  Timber
  Ms Walley
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether the ER M consultations on Government timber procurement has been completed; and if she will place a copy in the Library. [89672]

  Mr. Meacher
  The consultants have completed the timber scoping study that was commissioned by my officials in October 2001. Summaries of the open discussions held with stakeholders on 25 March and 2 September 2002 can be found at the Tropical Forest Forum website at: http://www.forestforum.org.uk/tradeb.htm. It also holds a copy of the consultant's report of the study giving their recommendations for implementing more fully our commitment on timber procurement. A copy of the various documents will be placed in the House of Commons Library.

  Ms Walley
  To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what measures have been taken by her Department since April 2002 to ensure full implementation of Government policy on timber; and if she will make a statement. [89673]

  Mr. Meacher
  Since April 2002 the Government have concentrated on raising awareness of its timber procurement policy among central departments and the 618W
  wider public sector and has begun to take action following completion of the scoping study undertaken by consultants. Some of the key measures taken are:

  promotion of the policy to devolved administrations and local authorities;

  evidence given to the Environmental Audit Committee;

  further consultation with stakeholders undertaken;

  reminders given to central departments;

  communication with the European Commission via the Office of Government Commerce to further clarify European Directives;

  commencement of procurement process for creation of a central point of expertise on timber procurement;

  collaboration with NGOs in sourcing timber for office building;

  contribution to briefing for international work including preparation for

  the World Summit on Sustainable Development

  Waste Recycling
  Joan Ruddock
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how (1) much his Department has allocated for waste recycling projects undertaken by(a) local authorities, (h) non-profit making organisations and (c) industry in financial years (i) 2002–03 and (ii) 2003–04; [90450]

  (2) how much her Department has allocated for waste recycling projects undertaken by (a) local authorities, (b) non-profit making organisations and (c)industry in financial years (i) 2002–03 and (ii) 2003–04. [90449]

  Mr. Meacher
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: I have been asked to reply.

  The main source of funding for local authority waste services is through the Environmental, Protective and Cultural Services (EPCS) Standard Spending Assessment (SSA).

  The EPCS SSA provides for a wide range of local authority services including libraries, local transport and flood defence, as well as waste. In total, the provision for the block is:

  2002–03: £8,961 million

  2003–04: £9,435 million

  Provision for waste services is not separately identified within the total.

  We have provided £50 million additional funding for 2002–03 and £90 million for 2003–04 through a £140 million Waste Minimisation and Recycling Fund to encourage local authorities to expand recycling operations in their area.

  A high proportion of our PFI funding supports recycling as set out in the criteria of September 2000. £220 million was allocated to PFI in Spending Review 2000 for the three years up to 2003–04. £70 million was allocated in the financial year 2002–03 and £100 million in 2003–04. These represent capital sums and not the revenue payments associated with them.

  We have provided funding for two projects from the Environmental Action Fund (EAF) in 2002–03 under the 'Understanding and Awareness' heading. £200,000 has been awarded to the Community Recycling

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  Network and £30,750 to the Recycling Consortium in 2002–03. The funding allocation through the EAF for 2003–04 has not yet been announced.

  Environmental Campaigns (ENCAMS), a non-profit making organisation funded by DEFRA, spent £210,000 in 2002–03 on waste recycling projects: (£150,000 on textile recycling and £60,000 through its Pathfinder programme). ENCAMS do not have any waste recycling projects scheduled for 2003–04.

  DEFRA contribute £10,225 million for each of the years 2002–03 and 2003–04 to the Waste and Resources Action Programme to work with the commercial and industrial sectors to create stable and efficient markets for recycled materials and products and removing the barriers to waste minimisation, re-use and recycling.

TRANSPORT

  Industry Haulage
  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recent discussions he has had with European colleagues regarding European road and rail haulage and drivers. [90370]

  Mr. Jamieson
  Discussions have taken place on the Commission's proposed Second Railway Package of legislative measures published in January 2002. This package aims to complete the liberalisation of the rail freight market, and to progress technical harmonisation of the EU rail network—including the processes to be followed to ensure the safety competence of train operators' staff.

  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what proposals there are to reform the EU Working Time Directive for drivers on long distance haulage to cut out dead time and to recast drivers' duties; and if he will make a statement. [90369]

  Mr. Jamieson
  There are two directives that will affect the working time of long distance haulage drivers. The most important is called the "organisation of the working time of persons performing mobile road transport activities" (2002/15/EC). This is due to be implemented into UK law by 23 March 2005. It will introduce an average 48 hour working week, a limit of 60 hours for a single week and a 10 hour daily limit for night workers. Both sides of industry are being consulted on how this directive should be implemented into UK law and we plan to launch a wider consultation exercise later this year.

  Agency

  Title/Purpose

  Driving Standards Agency

  Design, build, installation and operation of a computer system for the booking of the Practical Driving Test and associated services, and the supply and maintenance of the Agency's IT/IS infrastructure.

  Highways Agency

  Consultancy Services Framework for the provision of Human Resources advice and professional services.

  Consultancy Framework for the provision of construction and design services.

  Provision of safety engineering professional services.

  Traffic monitoring services.

  Framework Agreement for audit and measurement services.

  Design and supervision of A66 Stainburn to Great Clifton Bypass trunk road contract.

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  The Department of Trade and Industry plan to implement an amending directive (2000/34/EC) to the original working time directive (93/104/EC) later this year. This will extend working time legislation into previously excluded sectors, including transport. Under this directive, all drivers will be entitled to four weeks paid annual leave and night workers will get regular health assessments.

  Avia Solutions
  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to his answer of 7 January, ref 88280, (1) what payments have been made to Avia Solutions in connection with work undertaken in relation to his consultation on the future development of air transport in the United Kingdom; and what future payments to Avia Solutions his Department has contracted for; [90481]

  (2) what work Avia Solutions has undertaken for his Department in respect of the possible development of Redhill Aerodrome; and what payments have been made, or are contracted to be made, in relation to such work. [90482]

  Mr. Jamieson
  Avia Solutions are contracted to manage the analysis of the consultation responses received in respect of all areas of the United Kingdom, including that from Redhill Aerodrome Limited, as part of the ongoing air transport consultation. The analysis will be carried out by a team comprising civil servants and retained consultants with expertise in a range of relevant areas. The contract value is around £550,000.

  To date Avia Solutions have been paid about £700,000 for earlier work in support of the air transport consultation.

  The Department has not contracted Avia Solutions to undertake any other work in respect of possible development of Redhill Aerodrome.

  Capita Group
  Mr. Burstow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list the contracts that have been awarded to the Capita Group by his Department. [89975]

  Mr. Jamieson
  The Department currently has the following contract with the Capita Group:External Recruitment Service for the recruitment of staff at all grades below the senior civil service.

  In addition to the above the following contracts have been placed with Capita by DfT Agencies:

  Airport (Rugby and Coventry)
  Mr. Robathan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he will produce a summary of letters regarding the proposal for a new airport between Rugby and Coventry. [90493]

  Mr. Jamieson
  We will publish a summary of all the responses we receive to the consultation, after the consultation period has ended. As our first priority will be to produce the Air Transport White Paper as quickly as practicable, it is likely that this summary will follow the White Paper's publication.

  Cross Rail/Thameslink
  Miss McIntosh
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects the(a) Cross Rail project and (b) Thameslink project to be completed. [90614]

  Mr. Jamieson
  This will depend on securing the planning and other powers necessary to take the projects forward.

  Departmental Expenditure (Newsprint)
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what the total expenditure of his Department was on newspapers, magazines and periodicals in 2002. [90517]

  Mr. Jamieson
  The Department for Transport was established as a separate Department on 29 May 2002. Prior to that date, DfT was part of the Department of Transport, Local Government and the Regions, and separate expenditure figures for DfT are not available. From its formation until 31 December 2002, DfT expenditure on newspapers, magazines and periodicals was £50,000. This figure is rounded to the nearest £1,000, and excludes expenditure by DIE Agencies and other non-DfT(c) bodies.

  Drivers (Eye Tests)
  Mr. Swayne
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has for(a) compulsory eye tests and (b) random eye tests for drivers; and if he will make a statement. [90679]

  Mr. Jamieson
  There are currently no plans to introduce compulsory eye tests. However, given the importance of eyesight in safe driving it is an issue which is kept under constant review. The number plate eyesight test for checking that drivers' vision is adequate for driving has served its purpose well since its introduction. It is equivalent to minimum standard laid down in the EC second Directive on Driving Licences (91/439/EEC).

  The police already have the power to conduct random checks of motorists' eyesight at the roadside. They notify DVLA of any drivers who do not meet the required standard. Such reports are always investigated.

  Driving Licences
  Mr. Watson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what the fee for obtaining a replacement driving licence has been in each of the past five years. [90023]
  622W
  Mr. Jamieson
  There is currently no charge, nor has there been in the last five years, for the issue of a replacement driving licence when a person notifies a change of name and/or address. In addition, there is an optional over the counter service available at selected post offices at a charge of £4.00.

  DVLA Clamping Teams
  Siobhain McDonagh
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to his answer of 12 December 2002,official Report, columns 407–08W, how many of the DVLA clamping teams operating in London are mobile. [90027]

  Mr. Jamieson
  There are four clamping teams dedicated to the London area. They are all mobile in the sense they can operate in any of the 33 London boroughs. However, the DVLA also has two mobile clamping teams that operate throughout the UK in areas where there are no permanent clamping facilities.

  Ethical Banking
  Mr. Gardiner
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what contracts have been concluded as a result of the Government's commitment to support ethical banking. [89943]

  Mr. Jamieson
  The Government believe it is important for consumers to have choice in financial products, including the availability of 'ethical' products. However, it would not be appropriate for the Government to exclusively support the development of one specific group of financial service providers. It is for individual consumers to decide the attributes they most value from their financial services, and for financial services firms to be transparent about their use of funds and investments.

  Fair Trade
  Mr. Gardiner
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what fair trade criteria he sets when deciding upon what suppliers to use. [89909]

  Mr. Jamieson
  I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given by my right. hon. Friend the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 9 December 2002,official Report, column 92W.

  My Department is fully committed to supporting fair trade principles, and our headquarters catering contracts require contractors to supply a choice of Fairtrade beverages.

  Road Congestion (Freight)
  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps have been taken to relieve points on Britain's roads where freight transport is frequently held up. [90319]

  Mr. Jamieson
  My responsibilities extend only to the trunk road and motorway network in England. Issues on the rest of Britain's roads are for the National Assemblies of Scotland and Wales, or for the local highway authorities in the case of local roads.
  623W
  "Transport 2010: The Ten Year Plan" sets out the Government's vision for a fairer and more effective transport system.

  Pilot studies into the active management of road traffic and making better use of the existing road space are being undertaken by the Highways Agency. To help deliver the reduction in congestion, the Highways Agency is also developing its role as a traffic manager to help road users deal with congestion on motorways and other strategic routes. Actions to date include the delivery of more electronic Variable Message Signs, automatic hold up warning systems, website and public information improvements and the first stages of a new national Traffic Control Centre due to begin operating in 2004. The Traffic Control Centre will provide advice to road users about travel conditions on the trunk road network allowing them to plan their journeys more effectively to avoid congestion. In conjunction with the Police and other emergency services, the Agency is improving the way it deals with accidents and incidents on the network so that they are dealt with more effectively, reducing the time roads are disrupted to minimise congestion.

  Where necessary, programmes of works such as the Targeted Programme of Improvements, currently comprising 71 schemes, and the recently announced 92 priority junction schemes will be delivered. Both will provide increased capacity and improve conditions on the network. In 2002–03 we will deliver 10 major schemes from our Targeted Programme of Improvements and in 2003–04 we expect to deliver a further nine schemes.

  Gatwick Airport (Birdstrikes)
  Mr. Peter Ainsworth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the risk of birdstrike to planes landing at and taking off from Gatwick Airport. [90432]

  Mr. Jamieson
  All licensed aerodromes in the UK are required, as a condition of their operating licence, to take reasonable steps to secure that the aerodrome and its immediately surrounding airspace is safe at all times for use by aircraft. Aerodrome operating manuals are also required to contain information and instructions about the procedures for the control of bird hazards.

  Light Railways
  Bob Russell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to fund experimental(a) single route and twin route light railways and (b) tram systems in towns with populations of over 100,000. [90359]

  Mr. Jamieson
  We use the terms tram and light rail synonymously. It is for the local authority to consider in the first instance whether light rail might offer the most appropriate and cost-effective response to particular transport needs in its area and, if so, what form it might best take. Thereafter, any light rail scheme—experimental or otherwise—would need to undergo rigorous appraisal, and examination under any relevant statutory procedures, before funding approval could be considered.

  Birmingham Northern Relief Road (Low-noise Tarmac)
  Tony Wright
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport whether low-noise tarmac is being used in the construction of the Birmingham Northern Relief Road. [89449]

  Mr. Jamieson
  Yes. Responsibility for deciding on the surfacing treatment for the M6 Toll rests with Midlands Expressway Ltd. (MEL) the commissioning contractor. Their intention is to use low noise surfacing along the entire length of the route.

  Marine Pollution
  Ross Cranston
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to increase the liability of tankers that cause marine pollution incidents; and if he will make a statement. [89902]

  Mr. Jamieson
  Liability for pollution from cargo oil from tankers is governed by the 1992 Protocols to the 1969 Civil Liability Convention and the 1971 Convention on the Establishment of an International Fund for Compensation for Oil Pollution Damage, to which the UK is a contracting party. The current limit under this regime is equivalent to £117 million.

  As a result of action initiated by the UK, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) agreed in 2000 to increase the limits of liability and compensation under the 1992 CLC/Fund regime by 50.37 per cent. The revised overall limits will enter into force on 1 November this year, and will increase the maximum available amount of compensation to approximately £176 million.

  In addition, a Diplomatic Conference has been convened at the IMO in May this year to negotiate a proposed Supplementary Fund to the present regime. It is expected that, once it comes into force, this Supplementary Fund will further increase the amount of liability and compensation significantly so as to cover all likely costs directly arising from the most serious of tanker oil spills.

  The UK is also playing a prominent role in promoting the implementation of other maritime liability conventions which will increase liability for third party damages arising from shipping.

  Merchant Ships
  Mr. Prosser
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many merchant ships have been chartered by the MOD in the past five years; what their names were; and what their flag states were. [88901]

  Mr. Ingram
  I have been asked to reply.

  Some 367 merchant ships have been chartered by the Ministry of Defence over the period April 1997 to December 2002. I am placing a list containing the relevant information in the Library of the House.

  Ministerial Meetings
  Matthew Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport on what dates Ministers in his Department and his predecessor's Department have held meetings
  625W
  with members and officials of the United States Administration since 8 June 2001; where each meeting took place; which Ministers were involved in each meeting; which United States Administration departments attended each meeting; and which members and officials from the United States Administration attended each of these meetings. [89466]

  Mr. Jamieson
  Ministers have held meetings with representatives of the United States Administration on a variety of transport issues since June 2001.

  Pedestrians (Romford)
  Mr. Rosindell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he is taking to ensure the delivery of the accelerated town centre improvements to re-route traffic and enhance the pedestrian environment in Romford. [90796]

  Mr. Jamieson
  This is a matter for Transport for London and the London Borough of Havering.

  For further information please contact:

  Ben Plowden

  Transport for London

  Director of Borough Partnerships

  Windsor House

  42–50 Victoria Street

  London SW1H OTL

  Telephone: 020 7941 4079

  Road Deaths
  Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the progress in assessing the work in the Netherlands where traffic lights have been removed in an attempt to reduce road deaths; and if he will make a statement. [90765]

  Mr. Jamieson
  The Department is aware of work in the Netherlands. We understand there have been accident reductions but we have seen no figures to quantify these claims or any details of the effects on traffic flows and the behaviour of road users generally.626W
  We will continue to monitor the experiments and will work with UK local authorities who wish to trial some of the techniques that have been applied and which involve more than just the removal of traffic signals.

  Seaports and Airports
  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what action the Government has taken since 1997 to ensure that UK seaports and airports have the necessary capacity to satisfy demand. [90320]

  Mr. Jamieson
  We have undertaken a comprehensive assessment of existing airport capacity across the UK and possible options for expansion in the light of forecast demand. This formed the basis of our public consultation last summer, which is now being extended to include Gatwick options. Our conclusions will be set out in the air transport White Paper later this year. Approval has also been given to the construction of a fifth terminal at Heathrow airport which will substantially increase its passenger handling capacity.

  A number of port operators are preparing major projects to increase port capacity which are at various stages in the planning approval process. One (at Felixstowe) has so far been approved, the public inquiry on another (at Dibden Bay Southampton) finished in December and the Inspector plans to submit his report by October 2003. A public inquiry into a third (at London Gateway) is scheduled to begin in February, and there are plans for development at Bathside Bay, Harwich and further expansion at Felixstowe.

  West Coast Mainline
  Mr. Evans
  To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the age of the rolling stock on the West Coast Mainline. [90724]

  Mr. Jamieson
  The Strategic Rail Authority provides information on the average age of rolling stock in their publication, "National Rail Trends", which is placed in the Library of the House. The information is not available by particular routes.

WALES

  Accreditation
  Mr. Mark Field
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what his Department is doing to support the Government's policy on accreditation. [88086]

  Peter Hain
  The United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) is recognised by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry as the sole national body for the accreditation, against international standards, of certification and inspection bodies, testing and calibration laboratories.

  Cardiff (Lord Mayoralty)
  Kevin Brennan
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received regarding the Lord Mayoralty of Cardiff. [89737]

  Peter Hain
  None.

  Pension Credit
  Mr. John Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with his ministerial colleagues about the impact of the Pension Credit in Wales. [89732]

  Peter Hain
  Regular ones. The introduction of the Pension Credit from October 2003 will benefit 250,000 pensioner households in Wales, with those on £150 per week benefiting from an extra £1,100 each year.

  Rail Services
  Mr. Simon Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what recent discussions he has had with rail passenger groups in Wales on adequacy of rail services. [89738]

  Peter Hain
  A meeting of representatives from the Rail Passenger Committee in Wales is planned.

FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH AFFAIRS

  Cricket World Cup
  Mr. Ancram
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations his Department has made in the last six months to(a) the International Cricket Council and (b) the English Cricket Board with regard to (i) World Cup matches being rescheduled outside Zimbabwe and (ii) the England Cricket Team not playing in that country. [90644]

  Mr. Straw
  FCO officials have been in contact with the ICC and ECB since July 2002. They have provided briefing on the internal political, economic and humanitarian situation in Zimbabwe and advice on how this might impact on security. Ministers have repeatedly made clear that decisions on England's participation in the match it is scheduled to play in Harare on 13 February rest with the ECB and the ICC, but that in the Government's view, it would be better if the team did not go.

  EU Accession States
  Mr. Davidson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to his answer of 7 January 2003,official Report, column 136W, whether the Government plans to give (a) indirect financial support to campaigning groups within the 10 EU accession states and (b) other support to such groups and individuals; and if he will make a statement. [90738]

  Mr. MacShane
  The Government does not plan to give indirect financial support to campaigning groups within the 10 EU accession states.

  I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave him on 7 January 2003, official Report, col.136W.

  Hungary (Religious Discrimination)
  Mr. Leigh
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of current levels of religious discrimination in Hungary. [90561]

  Mr. MacShane
  We believe there is no major religious discrimination in Hungary. Religious freedom is anyway enshrined in the Hungarian Constitution.

  Hungary has also been assessed as meeting the Copenhagen criteria, which includes human rights for all citizens as part of the process of accession to the EU.

  Iraq
  Llew Smith
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has had with the United States on US plans for a postSaddam Hussein government in Iraq. [90236]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  We regularly discuss all aspects of Iraq policy with our US colleagues. As my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary explained in his Written Ministerial Statement of 7 January 2003,official Report, column 4WS, our policy remains to ensure that Iraq complies with its obligations under relevant Security Council resolutions, including by giving up its weapons of mass destruction.

  Lebanon
  Sir Teddy Taylor
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what information he has received from the Government of Lebanon regarding the reported admission by Yusef Shaban that he had responsibility for the Lockerbie disaster. [90931]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  We have received no specific information from the Lebanese government on this matter, although we are aware of the case.

  Lockerbie
  Mr. Dalyell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his meeting with the Lockerbie relatives on 17 December 2002. [88605]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  I refer my hon. Friend to the statement on Lockerbie made by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary on 17 December 2002,official Report, column 41WS.
  629W
  Mr. Bellingham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the result of his meeting with the Lockerbie relatives on 17th December. [88606]

  Mr. Mike O'Brien
  I refer the hon. Member to the statement on Lockerbie made by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary on 17 December 2002,official Report, column 41WS.

PRIME MINISTER

  United Nations
  Mr. Win Griffiths
  To ask the Prime Minister if he intends to visit New York before 27 January to discuss with other world leaders business likely to come before the UN. [90591]

  The Prime Minister
  I have no plans to do so.

  Drug Treatment
  John Mann
  To ask the Prime Minister what validation there is of statistics on waiting times for drug treatment held by the national treatment agency. [90592]

  The Prime Minister
  Information on waiting times for drug treatment is collected annually through the Drug Action Team treatment planning process. The data, which is provided by the service providers, is subject to scrutiny by the DATs. The figures are further scrutinised by the National Treatment Agency, the Government Offices and other local partners.

  Cricket World Cup
  Mr. Ancram
  To ask the Prime Minister what representations he has made in the last six months to(a) the International Cricket Council and (b) the English Cricket Board with regard to (i) World Cup matches being rescheduled outside Zimbabwe and (ii) the England Cricket Team not playing in that country. [90642]

  The Prime Minister
  The Government's position on this remains as I set out in the House on 8 January 2003,official Report, column 162. My right hon. Friends the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and the Minister for Sport, and my noble Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office met the ECB on 9 January. This was the culmination of dialogue between the ECB and government that began on 5 July last year at official level. The ECB nominate the England and Wales representative to the ICC. They are well aware of the situation in Zimbabwe and the Government's views on their participation.

  Honours
  Dr. Iddon
  To ask the Prime Minister how many honours have been awarded in each constituency since 1 May 1997. [90954]

  The Prime Minister
  This information is not held in the format requested and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

  House of Lords Reform
  Andrew Mackinlay
  To ask the Prime Minister if it is his policy that the political balance of the House of Lords should be maintained prior to the implementation of legislation completing the second stage of reform. [89812]

  The Prime Minister
  While the way forward on reform of the House of Lords is still under consideration, arrangements for identifying new members of the House remain unchanged. Membership of the House is kept under ongoing review.

  Job Sharing
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the extent of job sharing in his office. [90865]

  The Prime Minister
  At 31 December 2002, my office had a total of three job-share arrangements involving six members of staff.

  My office is committed to supporting part-time working, job-sharing and other forms of alternative working patterns. Cabinet Office policies apply in my office and all advertised posts will normally be open to anyone wishing to work an alternative working pattern, including part-timers and job-sharers although there will be some instances where this is not possible due to the nature of the work. The flexibility of any alternative working pattern is decided in conjunction with the local management to suit an individual's needs and the needs of their work.

  Michael Barber
  Mr. Liddell-Grainger
  To ask the Prime Minister to whom Mr. Michael Barber is responsible. [91168]

  The Prime Minister
  I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave the hon. Member for Truro and St. Austell (Matthew Taylor) on 13 January 2003,official Report, column 461W.

DEFENCE

  Air Defence
  Dr. Julian Lewis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has held with the United States on measures to fill the Royal Navy's air defence gap between the withdrawal of the Sea Harriers and the advent of the Joint Strikefighter; and what assessment he has made of the risk of aerial attack against Royal Navy ships between 2006 and 2012. [89886]

  Mr. Ingram
  It is our current assessment that the main threat to the Fleet in future would come from sea-skimming missiles. The Sea Harrier FA2 lacks utility in countering this threat. There have been no discussions with the United States of America on the Royal Navy's air defence capability for the period following the withdrawal of the Sea Harrier FA2 aircraft, although they were advised of the decision as part of the United Kingdom's annual submission to the NATO Defence Planning Questionnaire. Following the withdrawal of the Sea Harrier FA2, Royal Navy Task Groups will
  631W
  typically include Type 42 Anti-Air Warfare Destroyers and Type 22 and 23 Frigates also equipped with air defence capability. The Type 42 Destroyers systems are being enhanced to ensure that they remain effective in the air defence role.

  The first upgraded Airborne Early Warning Sea King Flight has recently entered service providing a marked improvement in capability to detect airborne threats to the Task Group over both sea and land, and the introduction of the Type 45 Destroyers, equipped with the highly capable Principal Anti-Air Missile System (PAAMS) will represent further improvement in our air defence capability. It is also highly unlikely that the Royal Navy will operate alone, but instead is more likely to be part of a coalition force with other Allied defence assets, as well as our own.

  Army (Joiners and Leavers)
  Bob Russell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many people joined the Army in the last year for which figures are available. [90355]

  Dr. Moonie
  The number of people joining the Army in the latest calendar year for which information is available is as follows:2001 (1 January-31 December): 15,380

  Bob Russell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many people left the Army in each of the last six calendar years. [90354]

  Dr. Moonie
  The number of people leaving the Army in the last six calendar years for which information is available is as follows:

  Year

  Number of personnel leaving the army

  2001

  14,400

  2000

  15,710

  1999

  16,090

  1998

  17,140

  1997

  14,560

  1996

  16,280

  Castle Class Patrol Ships
  Mr. Jenkin
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence where the Castle class patrol ships will be deployed in 2003. [90336]

  Mr. Ingram
  There are two Castle class patrol ships, one of whom is always allocated to the Falkland Islands as the FI Patrol Vessel. This is currently Leeds Castle. She deployed from the United Kingdom in January 2001 and will remain in the Falklands until June 2004.

  Dumbarton Castle is acting as Flagship for Commander Mine Countermeasures Force (North) until May 2003—a role she took up in May 2002. When she leaves the NATO Squadron she is programmed to enter Refit, in Rosyth, in June 2003 until February 2004.

  Catering Staff (Combat Training)
  Mr. Keetch
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many chefs and catering staff, broken down by regiment, have undergone combat training in the last six months in addition to any routine training that they may receive; and if he will make a statement. [90773]

  Dr. Moonie
  This information is not held centrally and can only be provided at disproportionate cost.

  Chemical Detectors
  Mr. Hancock
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many of the LCD-S palm sized chemical detectors have been delivered to service personnel; and if he will make a statement. [90170]

  Mr. Ingram
  Deliveries of the Lightweight Chemical Agent Detector have not yet been made but are scheduled to commence shortly.

  Defence Logistics Organisation
  Patrick Mercer
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what measures of efficiency are used within the Defence Logistics Organisation; and on which occasions these measures have not been met in the last three years. [88409]

  Mr. Ingram
  The Defence Logistic Organisation has since its formation on 1 April 2000 continued to contribute to the overall Year on Year Departmental Efficiency Target set as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review of 1998 and reported annually via the Departmental Performance report. Prior to 1 April 2000 Efficiency reports against the Departmental Target were the responsibility of the individual logistic Commands, Naval Support Command, Quartermaster General and Air Member Logistics.

  The individual DLO efficiency measures that contributed to the overall Departmental efficiency target for these years also contribute to the DLO's strategic goal, a 20 per cent. reduction in DLO output costs (as at March 2000) by 31 March 2006. Examples of the types of measure are contained within the latest Ministry of Defence Departmental Performance Report 2001–02 paragraphs 75 and 110 (available at the MOD website at www.mod.uk). From March 2000 to March 2002 the DLO has made a 5.6 per cent. efficiency saving in resource terms against its strategic goal. We have now agreed with the Treasury how the efficiency achievement in financial year 2002–03 will be measured, and we are currently discussing with them how performance against the remainder of the strategic goal (from 2003–04 onwards) will be measured.

  Defence Intelligence and Security Centre
  Mr. Keetch
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many(a) people were trained by DISC and (b) training places were made available in DISC, in each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement. [90775]

  Mr. Ingram
  The information requested is set out in the following table.
  633W

  Training year1

  1998–99

  1999–2000

  2000–01

  2001–02

  2002–03

  Personnel trained by Defence Intelligence and Security Centre2

  3,294

  3,373

  3,222

  3,105

  33,777

  Training places made available4

  4,231

  4,499

  4,644

  4,612

  4,684

  1In common with all military training establishments, DISC records statistics in training years which run from 1 April to 31 March. Hence the figures for TY 2002–03 are a forecast and include personnel still to complete training.

  2Figures given for personnel trained by DISC includes those who may have been withdrawn from course before its completion.

  3Forecast.

  4Training places made available are those agreed with the course sponsors, taking into account the sponsors' requirements and the resources available at DISC.

  Field Medical Units
  Mr. Jenkin
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many(a) field hospital units and (b) field ambulance units are currently deployed; and how many are ready to be deployed. [90341]

  Dr. Moonie
  There is one field hospital unit currently deployed, which is in the Balkans. Three further field hospital units (two Regular units and one Territorial Army) could be deployed within 30 days. Regular Field Ambulance units no longer exist and now form part of the five medical regiments, each of which have a High Readiness Squadron that could be deployed within 30 days. There are four Territorial Army Field Ambulance units, none of which are currently deployed or being prepared to deploy.

  Fire Appliances (Training)
  Bob Russell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many members of HM armed forces have been trained to use modern fire appliances; what plans he has for more to be trained; and if he will make a statement. [90353]

  Mr. Ingram
  I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 21 November 2002,official Report, column 220W to the hon. Member for the Isle of White (Mr. Turner). Since that time, the total number of personnel held contingent to provide emergency fire fighting cover has not changed significantly, nor have the numbers trained in specialist roles.

  A total of 1,062 personnel have, however, now been trained in the use of Red Goddesses and 177 Red Goddesses are now available for use during strike action. Personnel operating them form part of the overall numbers deployed.

  There are currently no plans to increase the numbers of armed forces personnel deployed on this operation. While our capability is subject to constant improvement as time goes by, both the numbers deployed and the operational concept have proved sufficient to ensure an adequate level of emergency cover during strike periods.

  General Dynamics UK
  Mr. Gibb
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether the Ministry of Defence is pursuing legal redress from General Dynamics UK Ltd. for the suspension of the Defence Stores Management System programme. [90177]

  Mr. Ingram
  General Dynamics UK Ltd. were not contracted to the Ministry of Defence for provision of the Defence Stores Management System, and the question of legal redress does not, therefore, arise.

  Gracemoor Consultants
  Mr. Simon Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the meetings he, his Ministers and his officials have had with representatives of Gracemoor Consultants since 1997. [82153]

  Mr. Ingram
  The information requested is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

  Iraq
  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent discussions he has had with his(a) European and (b) US colleagues regarding military co-operation in the Gulf. [90329]

  Mr. Hoon
  The statement by NATO heads of state and government issued on 21 November 2002 at the Prague summit affirmed that "NATO allies stand united in their commitment to take effective action and support the efforts of the UN to ensure full and immediate compliance by Iraq with UNSCR 1441". It is in this context that I have regular contacts with my European and American colleagues. These discussions have covered a wide range of topics, including military cooperation in the Gulf should that be required.

  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the troops referred to in his oral statement of 7 January 2003,official Report, columns 23–39, will arrive in the Gulf; and what training they will undertake. [90327]

  Mr. Hoon
  In my oral statement of 7 January 2003,official Report, column 25, I announced that we plan to deploy amphibious forces including HQ 3 Commando Brigade, 40 Commando Royal Marines and 42 Commando Royal Marines, with all supporting elements, to the Mediterranean with a view to proceeding to the Gulf region if and as required. In accordance with Exemption 1 of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information it would be inappropriate for me to discuss details of military planning, including timings.

  The group will conduct training in the Mediterranean, including force integration and combat enhancement training.

  HMS Invincible
  Mr. Jenkin
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if HMS Invincible will complete her refit at Rosyth on schedule. [90338]

  Mr. Ingram
  Work on HMS Invincible's refit is nearing completion and on schedule. It is planned to return the ship to the Fleet in May 2003.

  Nuclear Missiles (USA)
  Mr. Jim Cunningham
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with his counterpart in the USA regarding its further development of nuclear missile capabilities. [90316]

  Dr. Moonie
  I have had no such discussions with my United States counterpart, but Ministry of Defence officials have regular contacts with various US authorities on matters relating to nuclear weapons.

  QinetiQ
  Mr. Gerald Howarth
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence pursuant to the written ministerial statement of 5 December 2002, official Report, column 85WS, on QinetiQ, what proportion of the company's assets is reflected in the £50 million already received by his Department from QinetiQ as part of the purchase price paid by Carlyle Group for those assets; and what the total estimated value is of QinetiQ's assets divided into(a) tangible and (b) intangible assets. [90736]

  Dr. Moonie
  When QinetiQ was vested as a plc on 1 July 2001 the Ministry of Defence required it to purchase its assets from MOD with a combination of equity and an obligation in the form of interest-bearing loan notes to pay a further £150 million. The £50 million has been paid as part settlement of the outstanding loan notes.

  QinetiQ Group plc's Annual Report and Financial Statement 2002 shows a net book value for tangible assets of £534.6 million, the majority of which comprises land and buildings. This figure takes no account of the company's liabilities. The value for disposal of the property on the open market is estimated by QinetiQ's management to be at least £113 million less than the net book value. QinetiQ's Annual Report 2002 also values the intangible assets at £1.0 million.

  Search and Rescue
  Mr. Hancock
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what was the cost in each of the last five years of his Department's search and rescue capability in the UK; and if he will make a statement. [90157]

  Mr. Ingram
  Air and sea rescue is undertaken by a number of organisations within the Ministry of Defence and is conducted from a wide variety of locations utilising many different assets. The information requested is not held centrally and could only be provided at disproportionate cost.

  SSNs
  Mr. Jenkin
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which SSNs are in refit; and when they will rejoin the fleet. [90332]

  Mr. Ingram
  There are three SSNs currently in refit. HMS Sceptre and Spartan are planned to rejoin the fleet by summer 2003 and HMS Trenchant towards the end of 2003.

  Mr. Jenkin
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which SSNs will be going into refit in each of the next three years; and for how long they will be nonoperational. [90333]
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  Mr. Ingram
  The next planned SSN refit is that of HMS Talent which is expected to start in spring 2003 and take approximately 2½ to 3 years to complete, including post refit trials and training. I am withholding details of SSN refits planned to start beyond 2003 in accordance with Exemption 1 of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information, which relates to defence, security and international relations.

  Mr. Jenkin
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which Tomahawk-capable SSNs are operational; and of these how many are at sea. [90334]

  Mr. Ingram
  Currently the Royal Navy has three Tomahawk-capable submarines operationally available, however, the specific operational status and tasking of each submarine is classified for security reasons and is being withheld under Exemption 1 of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

  Statutory Instruments
  Mrs. Calton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Statutory Instruments subject to negative procedure made by his Department(a) came into force and (b) were considered by a delegated legislation committee in each of the last three sessions. [88024]

  Mr. Ingram
  The information requested is held in calendar years and not by parliamentary session. The number of Statutory Instruments laid by the Ministry of Defence that were subject to the negative procedure and that came into force in the last three years is:

  Number

  2000

  15

  2001

  3

  2002

  8

  None of these statutory instruments were considered by a delegated legislation committee.

  War Veterans (Support)
  Mr. Hoyle
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps his Department is taking to support(a) Falklands War and (b) Gulf War veterans. [86983]

  Dr. Moonie
  Since my appointment as the Government's Minister for Veterans in March 2001, I have been taking steps to provide all veterans from Her Majesty's armed forces with a co-ordinated focus for dealing with their concerns. I have set out three main priorities for this work. Firstly to pull together the Government's response to issues that cut across Government Departments, such as veterans' homelessness or ill-health; secondly to ensure that lessons learnt are absorbed into MOD's policies for service personnel; and thirdly, to improve communication by publicising the assistance offered to veterans by central, devolved and local government as well as giving veterans' organisations the opportunity to represent their collective and individual concerns to Government at ministerial level.

  In terms of financial support, all injured service personnel who are deemed to have sustained a disability due to their work in the armed forces are eligible for a

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  tax-free 'War Disablement Pension' from the Veterans Agency. They may also qualify for an attributable pension under the Armed Forces Pension Scheme.

  The Veterans Agency has always provided potential claimants with help and advice while they are completing their pension applications through a Freephone Helpline. That service was extended in April 2002 to provide all veterans and their dependents with a first point of contact and advice and information on where to access the support that is available to veterans from both the Government and the additional support provided by the veterans' charitable organisations. This support is provided to help ease the transition back into the civilian community in terms of employment and housing resettlement.

  Many of those whose service included deployments during the Falklands and the Gulf Conflicts will have already left the armed forces and some of those have ongoing health concerns that are being treated through the support provided under the national health service.

  In relation to the Gulf Conflict of 1990–91, we accept that some veterans are ill and that some have died. In our policy document: "Gulf Veterans Illnesses: A New Beginning" dated 14 July 1997, we set out how we would deal with this complex issue. We adopted three principles. First, that all Gulf veterans will have prompt access to medical advice from the MOD's Gulf Veterans' Medical Assessment. Second, that there will be appropriate research into veterans' illnesses and factors which might have a bearing on these. Third, the MOD will make available to the public any information it possesses which is of potential relevance to this issue. The policy document and information about what we have done in respect of Gulf veterans' illnesses can be found on the internet at: www.mod.ulc/issues/gulfwar.

  At present I am not aware of any evidence that demonstrates that veterans from any particular campaign or conflict need additional support. But we remain open minded and one of the working groups established as part of the Government's current Veterans Initiative has placed a contract with King's College London for research to provide evidence to support policy decisions to improve the delivery of cross-departmental support to veterans and identify any areas of unmet need. The next stage of this research will include interviews with key stakeholder organisations, such as the South Atlantic Medal Association 82, The Royal British Legion and Combat Stress as well as individual veterans. The aim will be to gather information on the needs of ex-service personnel, particularly the more vulnerable who are struggling with financial or emotional problems.

  Warships (Protection)
  Dr. Julian Lewis
  To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) if he will make a statement on changes in(a) training and (b) watch-keeping practices in the Royal Navy since the attack on the USS Cole; [89874]

  (2) if he will make a statement on resources allocated to research into protection of warships from suicide attacks since the USS Cole incident. [89873]
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  Mr. Ingram
  Detailed classified guidance on countering the Asymmetric threat has been issued to all Royal Navy and RFA vessels, and this guidance is reviewed regularly. In addition, Operational Sea Training has been improved to take into account new trends in Force Protection.

  Ships in United Kingdom military ports are now protected by armed gangway personnel. Also, units deployed to high risk ports will, as required, put in place enhanced Force Protection methods in the form of booms and physical barriers, with the agreement of the host nation.

  A team has been set up within the Fleet Headquarters specifically to deal with Force Protection issues.

CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT

  BBC (Independent Productions)
  Paul Farrelly
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport when the Office of Fair Trading intends to report on whether the BBC has met its independent production quota for the period April 2001 to March 2002. [90283]

  Dr. Howells
  I understand that the Office of Fair Trading is in the process of finalising the Director's report on the BBC's independent production quota for the 2001–02 reporting period. The report is expected to be published by the spring.

  Cricket World Cup
  Mr. Ancram
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what representations her Department has made in the last six months to(a) the International Cricket Council and (b) the English Cricket Board with regard to (i) World Cup matches being rescheduled outside Zimbabwe and (ii) the England Cricket Team not playing in that country. [90643]

  Mr. Caborn
  Officials in this Department contacted the England and Wales Cricket Board on 30 December 2002 and 2 January 2003 to discuss a possible meeting between the Board and Ministers. No representations have been made to the International Cricket Council by DCMS officials over the last six months.

  Industrial Action
  Nick Harvey
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media arid Sport how many working days have been lost in her Department due to industrial action in(a) 1997–98, (b) 1998–99, (c) 1999–2000, (d) 2000–01, (e) 2001–02, and (f) 2002–03; and if she will make a statement. [90484]

  Dr. Howells
  DCMS has not lost any working days due to industrial action in the years 1997–98 to 2002–03.

  Licensing Bill
  Mr. Laurence Robertson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans she has to require churches to be licensed in order to stage concerts; what fees they will have to pay in order to hold such concerts; and if she will make a statement. [90574]
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  Dr. Howells
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: In the Regulatory Impact Assessment, published with the Licensing Bill, it has been estimated that an initial application for a premises licence would cost between £100 and £500, and that there would be an annual charge of between £50 and £150.

  However, as I stated in the House of Commons on 16 December 2002, official Report, column 517, the Government has made a commitment to reconsider its position on the licensing of public entertainments in churches and will announce its conclusions as soon as possible.

EDUCATION AND SKILLS

  Child Care
  Caroline Flint
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many new child care workers have been recruited as a consequence of the child care recruitment campaign; and how many are working in child care settings. [87968]

  Maria Eagle
  The 2001 Child Care Workforce Survey shows that there are 274,520 child care staff across the sector. This is a rise of 21 per cent. from the 1998 workforce survey figures, when the figure stood at 226,340.

  There have been over 140,000 calls to the child care recruitment campaign national telephone order line. We do not keep track of the outcomes for all individuals who call, but a small sample survey in January 2002 showed that 86 per cent. of the callers surveyed had looked for job information and 10 per cent. had already found a job in the sector.

  Caroline Flint
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what recent progress has been made against targets by early years development and child care partnerships. [87982]

  Maria Eagle
  Local authorities returns indicated that by summer 2002 free nursery education places were available for some 70 per cent. of 3-year-olds, towards the target of a free such place by 2004 for all 3-year-olds whose parents want one. They also indicated that by June 2002 new child care places had been created since 1997 for some 1 million children towards the target of new places for 1.6 million children by March 2004; and that taking account of turnover in existing places, the increase in child care places to June 2002 will have benefited some 0.6 million children towards the target of 1 million children by March 2004. Information on progress against a range of other targets will he included in local authorities 2003–04 early years development and child care plans, which are to be returned in February 2003.

  Caroline Flint
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what his estimate is of the number of affordable child care places that will be needed if 70 per cent. of lone parents are to be in work by 2010. [88001]

  Maria Eagle
  The provision of affordable and flexible child care places for lone parents will be a key part of the strategy in meeting the 2010 70 per cent. employment 640W
  rate target. However it is not possible to accurately estimate the number of child care places required to increase the lone parent employment rate to 70 per cent. due to the wide range of interrelated factors that will determine both the lone parent employment rate and the take up of child care places by working lone parents.

  Education Maintenance Allowance
  Mr. Denis Murphy
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many students in the(a) Wansbeck constituency and (b) County of Northumberland have received the education maintenance allowance. [88157]

  Margaret Hodge
  The Department does not collect data on the number of students receiving the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) for areas smaller than LEA size. The number of students in Northumberland receiving the EMA in each academic year, since the pilot began, is set out in the table.

  The figures from 2002–03 are to the 27 December 2002 instead of the end of the academic year as with the 2000–2001 and 2001–2002 figures. As a result, these figures inevitably seem low compared to the other academic years. However, the number of students receiving EMA in December 2002 is also lower than the figure at the same time in the previous academic year. This is primarily due to the key member of the EMA team at Northumberland going on long term sick leave. In fact, the number of applications received in Northumberland is slightly up on the previous year's figures.

  Academic year

  Number receiving EMA

  2000–01

  1,502

  2001–02

  12,595

  2002–03

  12,281

  1Includes students who started courses in the previous year

  Note:

  2002–03 figures are to the 27 December 2002

  Ethnic Minorities
  Mr. Pike
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what recent representations he has received on EMAG policy and funding distribution. [89598]

  Mr. Stephen Twigg
  The Department has received representations or enquiries from 10 Local Education Authorities and two schools about the current arrangements for distributing EMAG.

  IT Support
  Harry Cohen
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills if he will make a statement on progress in providing a laptop computer with in ternet access and ICT support to every teacher(a) in the UK and (b) in Leyton and Wanstead; and when he expects the policy to be fully implemented. [90457]

  Mr. Charles Clarke
  The Laptops for Teachers initiative launched at the BETT show in January 2002 is open to all eligible teachers in England. To date LEAs have been given £60 million to purchase laptop computers on behalf of their schools and so far over 60,000 laptop computers have been bought.
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  I announced on 9 January 2003 a £195 million extension of this initiative to April 2006, making the total amount of funding £300 million. This will result in two thirds of all eligible teachers benefiting from personal access to a laptop computer over the four year period of this initiative.

  In May 2002 Waltham Forest and Redbridge LEAs, who are responsible for Leyton and Wanstead were allocated a total of £597,156 and have to date spent a total of £463,801 purchasing 453 laptop computers.

  School Standards
  Mr. Damian Green
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what estimate he has made of the cost of proposals contained within the document, 'Time for Standards'; and what discussions he has had with the Treasury on the document. [89365]

  Mr. Miliband
  Within the Government's agreed spending plans, we estimate that the cost of workforce reform will rise to some £1 billion per annum by 2005–06. This is well within the £6 billion planned increase in school budgets to be achieved by that year. These spending plans and the proposals in "Time for Standards" naturally carry the support of the Treasury.

  Sure Start (Rural Areas)
  Andrew George
  To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many applications there have been for the Sure Start scheme in rural areas since its launch; how many have been accepted; and what the average amount spent on each bid has been to date. [88143]

  Maria Eagle
  In rolling out Sure Start local programmes, we have invited local authority districts with large rural areas to establish a rural programme. Fifteen local authority districts have put forward an identifiably rural area as the location for their Sure Start local programme. These have all been accepted. The average level of revenue funding when programmes become fully operational—which is the third year of operation—is around £750,000 (this includes two programmes which are currently being developed as part of the 6'h wave and their funding has not yet been finalised). Capital funding ranging from £750,000 to £900,000 has also been committed to each rural programme. This is based on the capital strategy submitted by each individual programme and is intended to fund major capital projects in the first three years of operation.

  In addition, we are supporting a pilot project of 50 Mini Sure Start programmes in rural areas and areas with pockets of deprivation. These programmes cover areas where the number of disadvantaged children living in a defined area is considerably less than the 800 required for a typical full programme and so would not be covered by the traditional Sure Start model. The Mini Sure Start programmes are building on existing services like Neighbourhood Nurseries or other facilities delivering children's services and using Sure Start funding to deliver outreach and additional health work. Of the 50 Mini Sure Start pilots, 29 are specifically in rural areas. Average revenue grant for these
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  programmes across the financial years 2002–03 and 2003–04 is £110,000. Capital funding of up to £250,000 has also been made available.

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

  Embryo Research
  Bob Spink
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what action she will take to prevent a conflict between the Polkinghorne guidelines on separation and the MRC initiative to target IVF clinics to make more embryonic stem cells available via the donation of embryos; [89042]

  (2) what criteria were used by the MRC to decide which clinics would be approached as part of the national stem cell initiative; [89038]

  (3) what annual sums the MRC is proposing to make available as part of its targeted call for expressions of interest in developing consortia that foster two way collaborations between IVF clinics and researchers in the context of the national stem cell initiative; [89036]

  (4) what incentives the MRC will use to increase the supply of human embryos for the national stem cell initiative; [89035]

  (5) if she will estimate the number of human embryos the MRC are aiming to obtain as part of their seeking expressions of interest in the national stem cell initiative; [89033]

  (6) if she will list the clinics that received the MRC letter seeking expressions of interest in developing consortia that foster two way collaboration between IVF clinics and researchers in the context of the national stem cell initiative. [89037]

  Ms Hewitt
  Regulations were introduced in January 2001 to extend the purposes for which human embryos may be used in research. The regulations enable the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) to issue a licence for research for the purposes of increasing knowledge about the development of embryos and serious disease and to enable such knowledge to be applied in developing treatments for serious disease.

  The Medical Research Council (MRC) has taken the lead, in collaboration with the UK regulatory authorities (Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, Department of Health, Medicines Control Agency) and other funding agencies, in generating a coordinated national stem cell strategy. As part of this, MRC has appointed the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control to set up a UK Stem Cell Bank for the curation and distribution of ethically sourced, quality controlled human adult, foetal and embryonic stem (ES) cell lines.

  MRC, HFEA, the Department of Health and the Medicines Control Agency are collaborating to generate a UK-wide framework that will include: provision for oversight of national activities in stem cell research, standard donor information and consent forms, and route maps for researchers wishing to develop, bank and use stem cell lines for research and therapeutic purposes.

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  The HFEA license will require that samples of all ES cell lines be deposited in the UK stem cell bank. This will reduce the number of embryos required as individual researchers will not need to generate their own stem cell lines.

  In relation to the Call for Expressions of Interest in establishing consortia, applicants will be able to request pump priming support for up to three years. It is expected that more substantial support would be sought through conventional grant schemes. Examples for which funds might be sought through this call include:

  a nurse co-ordinator post to aid consenting by potential donors and facilitate interactions between the clinics and researchers

  travel expenses to assist liaison between researchers and clinics

  essential small equipment (e.g. a dedicated incubator or insulated containers to transport samples between sites)

  short-term secondments between collaborating centres for the purpose of training

  The Polkinghorne guidelines refer to the use of foetal tissue. The House of Lords Select Committee report on Stem Cell Research (February 2002) recommends the separation of clinical and research roles to be standard practice for donation of eggs and embryos. MRC will adhere to this recommendation in funding stem cell research. The nurse co-ordinators mentioned in the Call will be employed by the IVF clinics and will ensure that the donor couple fully understands the aims of the research and that it might reveal information about their health. The nurse co-ordinators will never become engaged in the research, but will liaise with the researchers to inform them if embryos become available.

  It is illegal in the UK for payment to be made for the donation of gametes (nominal expenses are provided however). MRC will not under any circumstances contribute to the costs of IVF treatment for those couples who choose to donate embryos for research. Donation will be entirely voluntary and by the free will of the couples involved. The decision to donate or not to donate will have no effect on their IVF treatment.

  Additionally, as recommended by the Select Committee, a high level Oversight Body has been established, chaired by Lord Patel, that will be responsible for the custody of stem cell lines, ensuring their purity and provenance, monitoring their use, and for establishing codes of practice for the use of ES cells, whether obtained from the bank or imported from elsewhere. The committee will review on a case by case basis applications to deposit and access ES cell lines and will monitor the use of foetal and adult stem cell lines. The committee reports to MRC Council and will brief Ministers on request.

  Clinics undertaking IVF treatment in the UK were asked whether they were interested in participating in the national stem cell initiative. A list of these clinics is available in the HFEA website (www.hfea.gov.uk). Those that expressed an interest were invited to attend a meeting at MRC Head Office and were subsequently sent an invitation to submit an expression of interest in establishing a consortium to develop collaborations. The process is ongoing, with the deadline for submissions of interest being 31 January 2003. It is not known yet how many applications will be submitted,
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  nor the level of support requested or to be awarded. When awards are made, they will be published on the MRC website in the usual way.

  Stem cell research will be conducted on embryos that are surplus to IVF treatment needs and would otherwise be discarded. The MRC does not know how many surplus embryos are discarded and cannot know how many surplus embryos will be donated for stem cell research.

  Minimum Wage
  Pete Wishart
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what plans there are to extend coverage of the national minimum wage to under 18s; [90639]

  (2) what plans there are to abolish the development rate for the national minimum wage; [90638]

  (3) if she will estimate the impact of increasing the minimum wage (a) in line with average earnings, (b) to £4.17 per hour, (c) to £4.87 per hour, (d) to £5.00 per hour and (e) to £5.30 per hour, on the cost of salaries of departmental employees (i) in total and (ii) for each nation of the United Kingdom in the next financial year; [90605]

  (4) when the Low Pay Commission will produce its next report; [90637]

  (5) what she estimates the cost to businesses would be of an increase in the national minimum wage from (a) £4.20 to £4.87 and (b) £3.60 to £4.17 in (i) Scotland, (ii) England, (iii) Wales, and (iv) Northern Ireland. [90636]

  Alan Johnson
  We have asked the Low Pay Commission to produce their Fourth Report on the national minimum wage by February 2003 and will carefully consider any recommendations that the Commission make on these issues in that report.

  BAE Systems
  Mr. Evans
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions she has had with BAe Systems regarding the sale of the aerostructures division. [90725]

  Alan Johnson
  My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, has had no specific discussions with BAe Systems regarding the sale of the aerostructures division.

  At a meeting in October last year at which a wide range of issues was discussed, representatives of BAe Systems informed me that the future ownership of the company's aerostructures business was under review. On 20 November, the BAe Systems' Board approved a recommendation to divest the aerostructures business and the company made an announcement to this effect on 25 November 2002.

  Syd Rapson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what meetings her Department had with officials of Financial Dynamics since 1 December. [88855]

  Ms Hewitt
  DTI officials attended two meetings with officials of other Government Departments during the past few weeks at which Financial Dynamics representatives were present.

  Electricity Trading and Transmission Arrangements
  Dr. Cable
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when legislation will be introduced to enable the introduction of the BETTA system; and if she will make a statement. [88038]

  Mr. Wilson
  [holding answer 19 December 2002]: The Government are committed to bringing forward legislation on the British electricity transmission and trading arrangements (BETTA) as soon as parliamentary time allows. The Government intend to introduce legislation in order to have British Electricity Trading and Transmission Arrangements in place no later than April 2005.

  Business Links
  Mr. Kidney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what(a) rules, (b) guidance and (c) advice she has published on declarations of interest and withdrawal from meetings in respect of the members of boards of Business Links. [90150]

  Nigel Griffiths
  Clauses 7.1 to 7.3 of the Business Link Operator Appointment outlines the responsibilities of Business Link Operators under Corporate Governance and Management. I am sending a copy of these to my hon. Friend and place a copy in the Libraries of the House.

  Mr. Prisk
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many responses had been received from businesses as a result of the Business Link advertisement campaign before 31 December 2002. [90568]

  Nigel Griffiths
  The main objective of the current Business Link advertising campaign, which was launched in September 2002, is to raise awareness of the business advice service and improve understanding of the variety of professional help available through Business Link.

  The campaign generated an increase of 61 per cent. in weekly calls to our national 0845 telephone number and a 63 per cent. increase in web sessions to businesslink.orgsite.

  Mr. Prisk
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the estimate is of the costs of the Business Link advertisement campaign by(a) news and print papers, (b) radio and (c) television in the calendar year 2003. [90569]

  Nigel Griffiths
  Costs committed to date for the continuation of the current Business Link advertising campaign are detailed as follows

  £

  (a) News and print papers

  491,533

  (b) Radio

  490,702

  (c) TV

  912,078

  Total

  1,894,313

  The current campaign runs until March 2003. Plans for advertising from April have yet to be agreed.

  Child Care Tax Credit
  Mr Archy Kirkwood
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether the advertising campaign on maternity and paternity leave rights will include information about financial support with child care costs. [90769]

  Miss Melanie Johnson
  The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness among both employers and employees about the new employment legislation which affects both expectant parents and parents with children under six or disabled children under 18.

  The Inland Revenue is already advertising the two new tax credits in the national press and on national television, of which the child tax credit includes an element specifically to help parents with child care costs; and the Department for Work and Pensions produces a booklet, Babies and Children, covering all the benefits for expectant parents and those caring for children, which is freely available from Jobcentre Plus offices and post offices.

  Company Directors (Disqualification)
  Mr. Allen
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on what grounds courts may disqualify a person from acting as an(a) executive and (b) non-executive company director; and what plans she has to extend them. [89251]

  Miss Melanie Johnson
  When it falls to a court to determine whether a person's conduct as a director makes him unfit to be concerned in the management of a company, the court will take into account the circumstances of the case and must have regard in particular to the matters for determining the unfitness of directors set out in Schedule 1 to the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986.

  It is also possible for a court to make a disqualification order on conviction of a relevant indictable offence, for persistent breaches of companies legislation and for fraud discovered in the course of a winding up.

  The effects of disqualification legislation extend to being a director or being concerned or taking part in, directly or indirectly, the promotion, formation or management of a company, except with the leave of the court.

  We have no plans to extend the grounds on which a person may be disqualified.

  Development Agencies
  Mr. Greg Knight
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment she has made of the level of accountability of development agencies in respect of their use of public money; and if she will make a statement. [88588]

  Alan Johnson
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: RDAs are non-departmental public bodies which operate under strict HM Treasury rules for all expenditure incurred. The annual accounts of the RDAs are audited by National Audit Office. The RDAs also have their own internal auditors and Government offices monitor payments made to the RDA.
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  The Department also receives monitoring reports from the RDAs on a regular basis to ensure that expenditure is properly incurred. The RDAs set out their broad spending plans in Corporate Plans which are submitted to Government for approval; these Corporate Plans are expected to deliver a number of targets which are set by the DTI in collaboration with other Government Departments to reflect the policy interest of those funding the agencies.

  Nuclear Power
  Norman Baker
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will calculate the cost of generating one unit of electricity from a new-built(a) nuclear power station, (b) coal-fired power station, (c) gas-fired power station, (d) offshore wind facility and (e) onshore wind facility; assuming average size in each case, and the write-off of capital costs over a 30-year period. [89088]

  Mr. Wilson
  [holding answer 8 January 2003]: The costs of generating electricity are a commercial matter for generators.

  Costs can be estimated on a variety of bases, and will vary from plant to plant. For example, figures can include all cost items, including depreciation and return on capital, or can refer only to the additional costs associated with continued operation. The costs of plant using fossil fuel will vary as fuel prices change.

  Estimates of the cost of generating electricity from new and existing coal and gas-fired power stations were published in chapter 5 of the 1998 White Paper, "Conclusions of the Review of Energy Sources for Power Generation"(http://www.dti.gov.uk/energy/publications/whitepapers/review_sources/chpt05.pdf)

  This suggested that the cost of new gas-fired generation might be in the range 1.8 to 2.2p/kWh, and new coal stations between 2.6 and 3.25p/kWh.

  More recent estimates of the cost of generation costs from different types of plant are contained in the PIU Energy Review and a report by an inter-departmental analysts group, both of which were published in February 2002.

  The PIU estimated the costs of gas-fired generation, new nuclear build and onshore and offshore wind generation as follows:

  Estimated generation cost (p/k Wh)

  Gas

  2 to 2.3

  Nuclear

  2.5 to 4

  Onshore wind

  1.5 to 2.5

  Offshore wind

  2 to 3

  Note:

  Estimate for onshore and offshore wind are for developments in 2020 and exclude additional costs occurring as a result of their intermittent nature.

  Both reports are available in the Libraries of the House.

  http://www.cabinet-office.gov.uk/innovation/2002/energy/report/index.htm

  http://www.dti.gov.uk/energy/greenhousegas/index.shtml

  Post Office
  Linda Gilroy
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what her Department is doing to promote the services of the post office network among other Departments who use its services. [88879]

  Mr. Timms
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: The nationwide reach of the post office network represents a valuable channel for delivery of Government and other services. Post offices are traditionally the place where customers go to transact a range of Government business.

  As recommended by the PIU report on the future of the post office network published in June 2000, Government provided the necessary support to enable Post Office Ltd. to test the concept of post offices as Government General Practitioners. DTI contributed £25 million to the cost of running the Your Guide pilot in Leicestershire and Rutland between July 2001 and March 2002. The outcomes of the pilot were thoroughly evaluated and a report was published last July. Although this indicated that a publicly funded national Your Guide service on the lines of that piloted would not provide value for money, and we have therefore decided not to roll it out, Your Guide has highlighted the potential for Government Departments to deliver services through post offices in future. The Department has been encouraging contact between other Departments and the Post Office concerning such services and has drawn the Departments' attention to a commercial kiosk service, based on kiosks in retail outlets—including some sub-post offices—which is expected to be piloted in Cornwall later this year.

  Ultimately it is for individual Departments and Post Office Ltd. to decide whether or not to pursue these initiatives. But we will ensure that Post Office Ltd. continues to work closely with other Government Departments to develop and promote the services of the network as appropriate.

  Post Office Card Account
  Mr. Kidney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on her Department's role in approving Post Office Ltd's communications with customers concerning the new post office card account. [90687]

  Mr. Timms
  Communication with customers about the card account at the Post Office is an operational matter for Post Office Ltd. I understand from the company that one leaflet on child benefit has been distributed to post offices for issue to customers.

  Postage Stamps
  Mr. Kidney
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make it illegal for retailers to sell postage stamps for less than the face value. [90686]

  Mr. Timms
  Retailers purchase books of stamps on a wholesale basis from the Royal Mail for resale in their outlets. As with other products acquired in quantity for resale purposes, it is for the retailer to decide whether they wish to sell the item for less than the face value. I have no plans to propose changes in this area.

  Postal Services (Romford)
  Mr. Rosindell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she is taking to improve postal services in Romford. [90294]

  Mr. Timms
  These are matters that fall within the day to day responsibility of Royal Mail and I have therefore asked the Chairman to reply direct to the hon. Member.

  Mr. Rosindell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on postal services in Romford. [90295]

  Mr. Timms
  These are matter that fall within the day to day responsibility of Royal Mail and I have therefore asked the Chairman to reply direct to the hon. Member.

  Redundancy Payments Office
  Norman Lamb
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what the total sums(a) claimed and (b) paid out by the Redundancy Payments Office were in each month over the last two years in respect of (a) redundancy pay, (b) holiday pay, (c) notice pay and (d) unpaid wages. [90688]

  Alan Johnson
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: The Redundancy Payments Service claim forms ask claimants for pay and other details of their former employment but not the amount of the claim, which is calculated by the service's computer system. The following table shows the total sums paid out for each of the months and categories specified.

  Payments made by the Redundancy Payments Service

  £000

  Arrears of pay1

  Compensatory notice pay1

  Holiday1

  Redundancy1

  2001

  January

  2,221

  8,497

  1,809

  9,946

  February

  2,142

  6,569

  1,481

  8,995

  March

  3,442

  8,762

  1,925

  11.334

  April

  2,692

  7,405

  1,416

  8,408

  May

  2,513

  7,865

  1,777

  9,057

  June

  2,217

  10,235

  2,076

  10,097

  July

  2,015

  8,632

  1,667

  7,761

  August

  2,490

  7,507

  2,140

  10,551

  September

  2,454

  7,211

  1,831

  11,156

  October

  3,198

  11,197

  2,018

  11,650

  November

  2,932

  7,854

  1,933

  8,627

  December

  2,117

  6,317

  1,596

  9,241

  2002

  January

  2,749

  10,898

  2,366

  10,144

  February

  3,396

  12,298

  2,242

  10,817

  March

  2,625

  9,672

  1,472

  10,186

  April

  3,070

  10,619

  1,857

  12,039

  May

  2,494

  10,108

  2,019

  11,263

  June

  2,158

  8,908

  1,708

  7,499

  July

  3,328

  10,969

  2,206

  9,864

  August

  1,963

  8,459

  1,781

  8,119

  September

  3,112

  9,847

  2,667

  12,885

  October

  2,974

  10,477

  2,163

  11,539

  November

  2,972

  11,116

  2,075

  11,917

  December

  2,178

  8,187

  1,730

  9,567

  1Gross payments before the deduction of tax and national insurance contributions.

  Science Funding
  Mr. Hoban
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what metrics she uses to assess the 650W
  economic benefits of Government expenditure on science (a) as a whole and (b) in respect of individual programmes. [87843]

  Ms Hewitt
  [holding answer 17 December 2002]: The Government believes that investment in science research generates substantial benefits for society and the economy. The main vehicle for Government investment in basic and strategic research is the Science Budget. The metrics that are used to measure the performance of the UK Science and Engineering Base as a whole at present are:-

  (a) Quality: measured by the UK's ranking in terms of citations.

  (b) Relevance: the proportion of HEI funding from non governmental sources.

  (c) Cost-effectiveness: measured by the UK's ranking in terms of the number of papers published per £1 million of public expenditure on science.

  One mechanism through which investment in the Science Base is translated into economic benefit is through the knowledge transfer activities of the Science and Engineering Base. Metrics in this area include:

  (a) Trends in numbers of patents applied for

  (b) Trends in the number of licensing agreements

  (c) Trends in income from licensing Intellectual property rights

  (d) Metrics of spin-outs

  (e) Trends in RC income from the UK private sector

  (f) Trends in co-publication with industry

  In addition Government Departments, including DTI, fund scientific research programmes in support of their objectives. This type of research will be evaluated primarily in terms of its contribution to the achievement of the relevant departmental policy or regulatory goals, rather than its overall economic impact as such. The Government is keen however to see that any economic benefits flowing from such research are properly exploited. To that end the Government's science, engineering and technology strategy, "Investing in Innovation" published in July 2002, made recommendations for strengthening departmental mechanisms for ensuring appropriate knowledge transfer.

  Sickness Absence
  Dr. Cable
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many days per employee have been lost through sickness in each year since 1997; and if she will make a statement. [88828]

  Alan Johnson
  Estimates of the number of days lost through sickness and injury per employee are available from the Labour Force Survey. However, figures are only available on a consistent basis from 2000 onwards and data for 2002 are not yet available.

  In 2000, 4.4 working days were lost on average through sickness and injury per employee. In 2001, 4.3 working days were lost on average per employee.

  Statutory Instruments
  Mrs. Calton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many Statutory Instruments subject to negative procedure made by her Department(a) came into force and (b) were considered by a delegated legislation committee in each of the last three sessions. [88036]
  651W
  Ms Hewitt
  The information is as follows:

  Number of SIs

  Session

  (a) subject to negative procedure, coming into force

  (b) considered by a designated legislation committee

  1999–2000

  173

  3

  2000–01

  49

  1

  2001–02

  109

  0

  Note:

  All SIs were considered by the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments. However those in column (b) were also considered by a Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation.

  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many statutory instruments have been issued by her Department in each calendar year since 1979. [89839]

  Ms Hewitt
  The number of statutory instruments issued by my Department in each calendar year are as follows:

  Number of statutory instruments issued

  1990

  144

  1991

  150

  1992

  106

  1993

  87

  1994

  138

  1995

  112

  1996

  122

  1997

  128

  1998

  135

  1999

  176

  2000

  146

  2001

  126

  2002

  128

  Note:

  Figures between 1979 and 1989 are not available.

  Veterinary Medicines
  Ann Winterton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what assessment she has made of the Competition Commission's provisional conclusions and hypothetical remedies contained in its inquiry into the pricing of prescription-only medicines; what assessment she has made of the effect of the inquiry's initial proposals on the(a) ability to dispense and (b) profitability of (i) small animal and (ii) large animal veterinary practices; and if she will make a statement; [88722]

  (2) when the findings of the Competition Commission's inquiry into the pricing of prescription-only veterinary medicines will be published; and if she will make a statement. [88721]

  Miss Melanie Johnson
  The Competition Commission's statement of provisional conclusions and hypothetical remedies was made public to inform interested parties in case they wished to make further representations to the Commission in the course of the inquiry. Therefore, it would not have been appropriate for DTI Ministers to make any assessment or statement until after receipt of the final report.
  652W
  The Competition Commission's draft final report on the supply of prescription only veterinary medicines was sent to DTI on 8 January 2003. The administrative target is to publish within 10 weeks of receipt.

CHURCH COMMISSIONERS

  Register of Interests
  Dr. Evan Harris
  To ask the hon. Member for Middlesbrough, representing the Church Commissioners if he will place in the Library a copy of the Register of Interests of the Church Commissioners; for what reason the Register of Interests of the Church Commissioners is not(a) available for inspection by the general public, (b) published and (c) available by photocopy on payment of a reasonable fee; and to what Government commitments to openness and freedom of information the Church of England is bound by reason if its establishment. [89655]

  Mr. Bell
  Although the Commissioners are not bound by the type of Government commitment to which the hon. Gentleman refers, the Board of Governors agreed in May 2000 to establish a members' Code of Conduct and Register of Interests in line with good practice.

  This is freely available by appointment to any Member of Parliament, Government official or General Synod member, which reflects the Commissioners' accountability to both bodies.

  I will arrange for a copy of it to be placed in the library.

HOME DEPARTMENT

  Asylum Seekers
  Ms Buck
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the impact upon voluntary organisations in receipt of European Social Fund and other funding sources of the withdrawal of the work concession for asylum-seekers for whom no decision had been made in six months and the consequent loss of grant to voluntary organisations offering services to those groups. [R]. [89779]

  Beverley Hughes
  Operation of the European Social Fund is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions who has said that there will be no impact on voluntary organisations that have ensured that their European Social Fund projects support only those people eligible to benefit from the fund.

  Fast asylum decision making will mean that asylum seekers who receive positive decisions will be able to access the full range of projects very quickly and so the impact on projects aimed at asylum seekers who would previously have been granted permission to work will be minimal.

  Ms Buck
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the level of awareness of asylum-seekers and those
  653W
  organisations working with them of the learning and volunteering opportunities which are no longer open to them. [R][89781]

  Beverley Hughes
  We are keen to see asylum seekers make a positive use of their time while waiting for their claim for asylum to be assessed. A range of opportunities are available to all asylum seekers regardless of the state of their claim and asylum seekers are also able to contribute to their communities through voluntary work.

  Faster decision making will ensure that asylum seekers receiving positive decisions will be able to access a full range of opportunities at a far earlier stage than previously was the case.

  Ms Buck
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the potential for(a) underspending on this year's European Social Fund allocation to organisations working with asylum-seekers, (b) capacity to meet agreed ESF targets, and (c) implications for future ESF allocations, following the withdrawal of the work concession for asylum-seekers who do not have a decision after six months. [R][89785]

  Beverley Hughes
  The operation of the European Social Fund (ESF) is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions who has said that, where necessary, allocation to organisations working with asylum seekers will be absorbed by other beneficiaries, and there is not expected to be any change to capacity to meet ESF targets, and there are not expected to be implications for future ESF allocations.

  Correspondence
  Mr. Kaufman
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he intends to reply to the letter to him dated 4 November from the right hon. Member for Manchester, Gorton with regard to Mr. Imad Osman Ahmid. [89237]

  Beverley Hughes
  I wrote to my right hon. Friend about this case on 15 January 2003.

  Bob Russell
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he will reply to the letter to the Minister of State from the hon. Member for Colchester of 27th November 2002. [90280]

  Beverley Hughes
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: I wrote to the hon. Member on 13 January 2003.

  Domestic Violence
  Margaret Moran
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department in how many cases power of arrest has been used in cases involving domestic violence in each UK region in the last 12 months for which figures are available. [88312]

  Hilary Benn
  Information from the Best Value Performance Indicators for the police service for April 2001—March 2002 on the number of people that have been arrested for domestic violence is as follows.
  654W

  Police Force

  Domestic violence persons arrested

  Avon and Somerset

  1,499

  Bedfordshire

  1,182

  Cambridgeshire

  N/A

  Cheshire

  844

  City of London

  17

  Cleveland

  1,207

  Cumbria

  812

  Derbyshire

  N/A

  Devon and Cornwall

  2,808

  Dorset

  615

  Durham

  1,971

  Dyfed-Powys

  879

  Essex

  972

  Gloucestershire

  N/A

  Greater Manchester

  4,205

  Gwent

  401

  Hampshire

  N/A

  Hertfordshire

  N/A

  Humberside

  746

  Kent

  2,438

  Lancashire

  2,376

  Leicestershire

  N/A

  Lincolnshire

  N/A

  Merseyside

  N/A

  Metropolitan Police

  6,265

  Norfolk

  1,326

  Northamptonshire

  398

  Northumbria

  5,663

  North Wales

  1,889

  North Yorkshire

  648

  Nottinghamshire

  N/A

  South Wales

  2,179

  South Yorkshire

  N/A

  Staffordshire

  3,636

  Suffolk

  19

  Surrey

  N/A

  Sussex

  3,313

  Thames Valley

  583

  Warwickshire

  N/A

  West Mercia

  N/A

  West Midlands

  7,025

  West Yorkshire

  76

  Wiltshire

  1,125

  England and Wales

  57,117

  N/A—Figures not available.

  Domestic violence itself is not a criminal offence and offenders are charged under a number of different offences (assault, GBH etc). Police forces have to examine individual crime reports in order to identify these crimes, and to identify which resulted in arrests. It is expected that rollout of new IT should enable all forces to produce this data in due course.

  Drugs Crime
  Dr. Cable
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what proportion of crime in the(a) Twickenham constituency, (b) London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and (c) London in 2001 was deemed to be drug related; and if he will make a statement. [88824]

  Mr. Bob Ainsworth
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: Recorded crime figures include statistics on drugs offences, such as possession, and on acquisitive crimes, such as burglary, but do not record whether the latter are related to an offender's drug habits.

  However, the New English and Welsh Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring (NEW-ADAM) research programme, which involves interviewing and drug testing those arrested by the police, confirms a link between drug misuse and crime. The conclusions do not

  655W
  relate specifically to Twickenham or Richmond-uponThames, although two of the eight sites were in London (Bethnal Green and Hammersmith). Analysis of the data from the first eight sites in the survey, collected during 1999–2000, shows that 65 per cent. of arrestees provided a urine sample that tested positive for one or more illegal drug. The analysis also shows that up to 29 per cent. of arrestees tested positive for opiates (including heroin) and/or cocaine (including crack).

  As a guide to the proportion of crime that is drug-related, analysis of the NEW-ADAM self-report data indicates that while only 21 per cent. of non-drug using arrestees reportedhaving previously offended in the past 12 months, this figure rises to 75 per cent. for those arrestees who use heroin and/or cocaine/crack. Moreover, while users of both heroin and cocaine/crack represented just under one quarter of all arrestees interviewed, they were responsible for more than three fifths of all the illegal income reported.

  In support of this, 55 per cent. of arrestees who reported using one or more drugs in the last 12 months and committing one or more acquisitive crimes, acknowledged a link between their drug use and their offending behaviour. This proportion rose to 78 per cent. for arrestees who said they had used heroin and cocaine/crack.

  Green Ministers
  Mr. Gray
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department which Minister in his Department is nominated Green Minister; how often he has attended meetings of the Green Ministers; and which official has responsibility for the Defra rural proofing checklist in his Department. [88462]

  Beverley Hughes
  My noble Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Lord Filkin) for Race Equality, Community Policy and European and International Policy represents the Home Office on the Ministers' Committee ENV (G). It is not the policy of Government Departments to disclose details of Ministers' attendance of meetings. Policy responsibility for rural proofing lies in the Home Office with the Public Order and Reassurance Unit.

  Oakington
  Mr. Lansley
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the weekly cost of providing the facilities at the Immigration Reception Centre, Oakington. [89797]

  Beverley Hughes
  The estimated weekly cost of providing the facilities at Oakington in 2001–02, the last full year for which information was available, was £288,000. The comparable (provisional) figure for the first six months of 2002–03 was £294,000.

  Mr. Lansley
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the unit cost is of processing asylum applications at the Immigration Reception Centre, Oakington, Cambridgeshire. [89799]

  Beverley Hughes
  The unit cost of processing a principal asylum application at Oakington reception centre in 2001–02, the last full year for which figures 656W
  are available, was £1,515. The comparable provisional figure for the first six months of 2002–03 was an estimated £1,247.

  Motor Vehicle Abandonment
  Mr. Love
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many(a) prosecutions and (b) convictions for abandoning a motor vehicle there were in each London borough in each of the last five years. [89407]

  Mr. Bob Ainsworth
  Court proceedings information held centrally on the offence of dumping, under the Refuse Disposal (Amenity) Act 1978, cannot separately identify the dumping of motor vehicles from the dumping of anything other than a motor vehicle.

  Information is not collected by London borough. Available data are therefore given in the table for the Metropolitan Police area.

  Number of proceedings and total findings of guilt for the offence of unauthorised dumping1within the Metropolitan Police area, 1998–2001

  Number of offences

  Total proceedings

  Total findings of guilt

  1998

  11

  8

  1999

  42

  32

  2000

  30

  29

  2001

  18

  17

  1An offence under the Refuse Disposal (Amenity) Act 1978 section 2 (covers motor vehicles and other).

  Note:

  1997 data not available

  Road Haulage Industry (Illegal Immigrants)
  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he has had with road haulage companies regarding the security of vehicles against illegal immigrants. [90324]

  Beverley Hughes
  There was widespread consultation with the transport industry prior to the introduction, in April 2000, of the regime under which road hauliers and others may receive penalties for the carriage of clandestine entrants to the United Kingdom. That consultation included how road hauliers could secure their vehicles against unauthorised entry.

  Since the regime was introduced, and during the recent passage through Parliament of the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act, which brought in an amended regime from 8 December 2002, there has been frequent correspondence and meetings with the industry, both at ministerial and official level.

  Responsibility for securing vehicles against unauthorised entry lies with transport operators. Those who take the measures described in the "Prevention of Clandestine Entry Code of Practice" will greatly reduce both the risk of carrying clandestine entrants to the United Kingdom and of receiving a penalty should they do so. Compliance with the Code is promoted strongly in all our dealings with the industry and this message was reinforced more recently in the awareness raising campaign that took place in the weeks leading to the implementation of the amended penalty regime.
  657W
  During the course of administering the penalty provisions, officials often give advice on an individual basis to companies about the level of vehicle security expected, and about compliance with the Code of Practice. The Code is available on the Home Office Website as well as on request from the Civil Penalty Central Administration Unit by telephoning 020 8745 6006.

  Police (Bromley)
  Mr. Horam
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how many police officers there were in the London borough of Bromley in each year since 1973; [89803]

  (2) how many special constables there were in the London borough of Bromley in each year since 1973; and how many police support staff there were in each year over the same period. [89804]

  Mr. Denham
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: This information is not centrally collected. The deployment of resources between the London borough divisions is an operational matter for the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis.

  Information on the number of police officers, special constables and civilian support staff for each force can be found in the Annual Reports of Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary until 1995–96. Thereafter the data can be found in Home Office Statistical Bulletins on police strength in England and Wales from March 1998, copies of which are in the Library.

  Prison Population
  Mr. Garnier
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many convicted prisoners there were in England and Wales in the last period for which figures are available; how many were(a) United Kingdom nationals, (b) nationals of another EU state and (c) nationals of other states; and how many, when sentenced, had no current right of abode in the United Kingdom. [90358]

  Hilary Benn
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: On 31 October 2002 there were 63,772 convicted prisoners in prisons in England and Wales. 57,019 of these were UK nationals, 653 were from EU member states, 5,852 were from non-member states, and 248 have no recorded nationality. These figures exclude non-criminal prisoners and fine defaulters.

  Information on how many prisoners had a current right of abode is not available.

  Sex Offenders
  Dr. Evan Harris
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many people are subject to the registration under the sex offender list 1997, as amended, solely for(a) offences that were decriminalised by the Sexual Offences Amendment list 2001 and (b) offences that the Government proposes to decriminalise or downgrade in its White Paper on Reform of Sexual Offences. [89660]
  658W
  Hilary Benn
  Although the notification requirements of the Sex Offenders Act 1997 are commonly known as 'the register or sex offenders', there is, in fact, no central register from which this information could be obtained.

  It is not possible to say how many individuals in the categories specified are subject to the notification requirements of the Sex Offenders Act 1997 (the register). This is because not all those convicted or cautioned for buggery or gross indecency at present will be required to register. A person becomes subject to the Act's requirements in a variety of circumstances following a conviction or a caution for buggery or gross indecency.

  Whether offenders convicted of buggery and gross indecency must register

  Offence

  Offender under 20

  Offender over 20 and victim/other party over 18

  Offender over 20 and victim/other party under 18

  Buggery

  Never

  Only where sentence longer than 30 months

  Always

  Gross indecency

  Never

  Only where sentence longer than 30 months

  Always

  Criminal statistics do not record the circumstances of the offence with a sufficient degree of detail to say for each offence how many individuals will be affected. Moreover, the requirements on some offenders who were cautioned or convicted on or since the implementation of the Sex Offenders Act 1997 will since have lapsed.

  Terrorism
  Patrick Mercer
  To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent tests have been conducted to establish the reaction time of the emergency services in the event of a terrorist attack. [88408]

  Mr. Denham
  In addition to regular training undertaken by the emergency services, the Home Office national counter-terrorist exercise programme is centred on three large-scale live exercises involving participants from Central Government, the police, military and specialist scientific or technical assistance if required.

TREASURY

  Employment Statistics
  Mr. Frank Field
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what his most recent estimate was of the number of people, broken down by age and sex, who have never worked. [90817]

  Ruth Kelly
  The information requested falls within the responsibility of the National Statistician. I have asked him to reply.

  Letter from J. Pullinger to Mr. Frank Field, dated 15 January 2003:
  The National Statistician has been asked to reply to your recent question about the number of people who have never worked. I am replying in his absence. (90817)
  659W
  The attached table gives the information requested for the three month period ending August 2002. These estimates are from the Labour Force Survey (LFS).

  People who have never had paid work1, by sex and age United Kingdom, June to August 2002

  Thousands, not seasonally adjusted

  All persons

  Male

  Female

  All aged 16 +

  2,462

  1,012

  1,450

  All of working age2

  2,203

  996

  1,208

  16–17

  777

  416

  361

  18–24

  843

  417

  427

  25–34

  283

  94

  189

  35–49

  222

  54

  168

  50–64(m)/50–59(w)

  77

  14

  63

  65 + (m)/60+ (w)

  259

  17

  242

  1Paid work excluding casual or holiday work but including periods of self-employment or support by a Government training and employment programme.

  2Men aged 16–64 and women aged 16–59.

  Note:

  These Labour Force Survey (LFS) estimates are Not Seasonally Adjusted (NSA) and have not yet been adjusted to take account of the recent Census 2001 results.

  Source:

  ONS—Labour Force Survey

  Barristers' Fees
  Mr. Dismore
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will explain the policy reasons for the special tax point regime for VAT due on barristers' fees; and if he will make a statement. [90422]

  John Healey
  The VAT tax point rules for barristers were introduced at the start of VAT in recognition of the fact that usually fees are still subject to negotiation after completion of the work and barristers are mostly unable to sue for unpaid fees.

  Capita Group
  Mr. Burstow
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the contracts that have been awarded to the Capita Group by his Department. [89974]

  Ruth Kelly
  The information is as follows.

  Department/number

  Description

  HMT (1)

  Recruitment of Staff

  IR (2)

  Two Management consultancy frameworks let in 2002

  HMCE (39)

  Maximum return on Investment Training

  Membership Subscription

  Promoting Flexible Working Practices

  Managing Change Training

  e-Learning Training

  Leadership Training

  GORS Selection Interview Training

  Training Administration Introduction

  NLP Training

  IT Tests

  Talent Spotting

  Professional Skills for SEC

  Business Writing

  Taking Responsibility Training

  Civil Service Reform Training

  AA/AO Assessment Tests

  Training Evaluation

  Legal Trainees

  Fast Stream Recruitment

  Advanced Assertiveness for Managers Training

  660W

  Department/number

  Description

  Complaints Training

  Henry V and Inspirational Leadership

  Positive Image Training

  Assistant Print Buyer

  Access to Personal Information Training

  Time Management Training

  Data Protection Training

  Belfast Building Work

  Diagnostic Internal Communications Manager

  Feedback

  RAS Helpline

  Thinking on your feet

  GLS Lawyers Recruitment

  Human Resources Manager

  Communication Training

  Internal Communications Manager

  Effective Middle Management

  Human Resources

  Customer Contact Centre Advisor

  OGC (1)

  Capita Property Consultancy are appointed to provide property related advice and services under the terms of a framework agreement.

  Departmental Running Costs
  Mr. Andrew Turner
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the running costs of(a) the Department and (b) each of its sponsored agencies were in (i) 1997 and (ii) the most recent year for which figures are available. [90705]

  Ruth Kelly
  Detailed information on administration costs for HM Treasury and its agencies, going back to 1998–99 and with projections to 2003–04, is set out in Table 5, annex B, of the 2002 departmental report (Cm 5425). Data for years before 1998–99 are not available on the same basis. Provisional outturn for gross and net administration costs limits were published in "Public Expenditure 2001–02 Provisional Outturn" (Cm 5574), Tables 4 and 5. Updated information, with plans to 2005–06, will be published in the 2003 departmental report in the spring.

  Departmental Staff
  Mr. Cousins
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what distribution of his Department's whole-time equivalent staff was, including the staff in agencies and other bodies reporting to him, in each Government office region and nation of the UK(a) in 1996 and (b) at the most recent available period. [90466]

  Mr. Andrew Turner
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many full-time equivalent staff are employed in(a) the Department and (b) each of the agencies it sponsors; and what the figures were for 1997. [90665]

  Ruth Kelly
  I refer my hon. Friend and the hon. Gentleman to the answer the Minister of State, Cabinet Office is giving today.

  Honours and Dignities
  Norman Lamb
  To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will break down by main spending heads(a) salaries and (b) ceremonial expenses paid for by his Department under its provision for honours and dignities, as set out on page 55 of the HM Treasury Departmental Report 2002. [89263]
  661W
  Ruth Kelly
  [holding answer 7 January 2003]: Honours and dignities are normally awarded by HM the Queen on the advice of the Ceremonial Secretariat of the Cabinet Office. For historical reasons spending is included in the Treasury's Estimate. Estimated spending by the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood (CCOK) for the financial year 2002–03 breaks down as follows:

  £

  Admin expenses of CCOK, including salaries

  469,100

  Cost of Insignia issued

  459,700

  George Cross annuities

  18,200

  Other Ceremonial costs

  69,000

  Total

  11,016,000

  1Net of £7,000 appropriations-in-aid.

  Income Tax
  Matthew Taylor
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the revenue yield of a 50 per cent. income tax rate on(a) taxable incomes and (b) gross incomes exceeding £100,000 per annum; if he will estimate in each case the (i) income tax and (ii) capital gains tax yield; and if he will make a statement. [90175]

  Dawn Primarolo
  The full-year yield in 2003–04 of making the changes are set out in the table.

  (i) income tax yield (£ billion)

  (ii) capital gains tax yield (£ million)

  (a) 50 per cent. rate for taxable incomes over £100,000

  4.9

  120

  (b) 50 per cent. rate for gross incomes over £100.000

  5.1

  120

  The income tax estimates are based on the Survey of Personal Incomes and are consistent with the November 2002 Pre-Budget Report. These estimates exclude any behavioural response to the tax change.

  Capital gains tax estimates take into account the likely effect on yield of changes in the volume of disposals in a full year caused by taxpayers' behaviour.

  Inheritance Tax
  Paul Flynn
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to ensure that inheritance tax is paid on the same basis by all residents of the United Kingdom. [90251]

  Dawn Primarolo
  Inheritance tax is payable on the world-wide estate of those who die domiciled in the UK, or are treated as domiciled here by virtue of their length of residence.

  Loans (Second World War)
  Bob Russell
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what financial payments are being made to the United States of America in respect of loans and other financial assistance given to the UK during the Second World War. [90361]
  662W
  Ruth Kelly
  I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Castle Point (Bob Spink) on 28 February 2002,official Report, columns 1437–39W.

  Table B19 in the Supplementary Statements to the Consolidated Fund and National Loans Fund Accounts for 2001–02, presented to Parliament on 19 December 2002, provides the latest published data on these loans (HC 113, Session 2002–03).

  Lorry Charges
  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress has been made regarding the introduction of a lorry road user charge for non-UK vehicles; and if he will make a statement. [90461]

  John Healey
  The Government announced that it intends to introduce a lorry road user charge in 2005 or 2006 based on distance travelled. All haulage vehicles on UK roads will be subject to the charge, including UK operators as well as those from overseas. However, we are committed to ensuring that the UK haulage industry will not pay more as a result of the introduction of the charge and will introduce offsetting tax reductions for the industry.

  As announced in the recent pre-Budget report, the Government will publish a second progress report in the near future. This will outline the results of the work on how to implement and procure the charge and offsetting tax cuts.

  Manufacturing Exports
  Sir Archy Kirkwood
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate he has made of the value of manufacturing exports from companies in(a) the Scottish Borders, (b) Scotland and (c) the UK in each of the last 10 years. [90371]

  Ruth Kelly
  The estimates for the value of manufacturing exports to EU and non-EU countries for 1993—September 2002 (year to date) are provided in the following table.

  £ million

  Year

  UK total

  Scotland

  Scottish Borders

  1993

  80,475

  N/A

  N/A

  1994

  92,212

  N/A

  N/A

  1995

  107,073

  N/A

  N/A

  1996

  118,371

  10,482

  205

  1997

  123,887

  11,692

  190

  1998

  120,966

  13,013

  150

  1999

  120,294

  13,978

  102

  2000

  132,433

  15,596

  129

  2001

  133,380

  16,127

  145

  20021

  98,320

  10,236

  86

  1Year to date

  Note: Regional trade estimates are not available for the period 1993–96. The Scottish Borders relates to the 'Scottish Borders' district council. The UK total figures are reproduced from the Overseas Trade Statistics time series, published by HM Customs and Excise

  Musical Instruments (VAT)
  Bob Russell
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much he estimates will be raised in the current financial year from the levying of value added tax on musical instruments. [90360]

  John Healey
  It is not possible to provide the requested estimate. Customs and Excise do not disaggregate VAT receipts to this level of specific commodity detail.

  National Insurance
  Mr. Peter Duncan
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many employees in Scotland pay national insurance. [90392]

  Dawn Primarolo
  The Government Actuary's Department is not able to produce reliable estimates of the number of employees paying national insurance in Scotland.

  Tax Relief
  Matthew Taylor
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the revenue yield of abolishing taper relief for financial years 2003–04 and 2004–05 and reintroducing indexation and retirement relief; and if he will make a statement. [90174]

  Dawn Primarolo
  Consistent with the assumptions of the November 2002 Pre-Budget Report forecast, the full year yield in 2003–04 from re-introducing indexation and retirement relief and abolishing taper relief is estimated to be £200 million. Information for 2004–05 is available only at disproportionate cost.

  Tobacco Products (Revenue)
  Paul Flynn
  To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the estimated annual consumption of tobacco products was in each of the last five years. [90274]

  John Healey
  Estimates of the quantities of cigarettes consumed in each of the last three full financial years are given in Table 3.3 of "Measuring Indirect Tax Losses", published by HM Customs and Excise in November 2002, and available in the Library of the House. Corresponding consumption estimates for the two years 1997–98 and 1998–99 are 85.5 billion cigarette sticks and 83 billion respectively.

PRIVY COUNCIL

  Statutory Instruments
  Mr. Bercow
  To ask the President of the Council how many statutory instruments have been issued by his Department in each calendar year since 1979. [89846]

  Mr. Robin Cook
  The information requested is as follows:

  Number

  1979

  10

  1980

  14

  1981

  4

  1982

  3

  664W

  Number

  1983

  6

  1984

  11

  1985

  8

  1986

  5

  1987

  9

  1988

  6

  1989

  9

  1990

  4

  1991

  4

  1992

  2

  1993

  3

  1994

  11

  1995

  6

  1996

  11

  1997

  5

  1998

  9

  1999

  14

  2000

  21

  2001

  11

  2002

  7

  Notes:

  1. For the period 1979 to 1998, statutory instruments were issued by the President of the Council.

  2. Figures from 1999 include those issued by the Office of Leader of the House of Commons. Previously, this task was undertaken by the Cabinet Office.

WORK AND PENSIONS

  Employers' Liability Insurance
  Mr. Stephen O'Brien
  To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, pursuant to his answer of 10 December 2002,official Report, column 262W, on insurance, what the timetable for the review of the operation of employers' liability compulsory insurance will be. [87793]

  Mr. Nicholas Brown
  I refer the hon. Member to the written ministerial statement I gave on 12 December 2002,official Report, columns 23–24WS, which said that the review would report to Ministers in spring 2003.

  New Deal Costs
  Mr. Frank Field
  To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, pursuant to his answer to the hon. Member for Havant (Mr. Willetts),official Report, 9 December 2002, column 140W, on New Deal costs, how much of the windfall tax revenue has been allocated to (a) welfare-to-work programmes and (b) other items; and how much remains unallocated. [89855]

  Mr. Nicholas Brown
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: Information on the allocation of the windfall tax is in the Pre-Budget Report published in November 2002, which is available in the Library.

  Public Sector Workers (Compulsory Retirement)
  Mr. Laws
  To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what action he is taking to prevent public sector workers from facing compulsory retirement at age 60; and if he will make a statement. [90218]

  Mr. McCartney
  In the recent Pensions Green Paper, "Simplicity, Security and Choice: Working and Saving for Retirement" (Cm 5677), we have proposed that the rules of public sector pension schemes should be
  665W
  changed over the next few years to make an unreduced pension payable from a normal pension age of 65 rather than 60 in respect of all new members.

  Under age legislation to be implemented by 2006, compulsory retirement ages are likely to be unlawful unless employers can show that they are objectively justified. The Department for Trade and Industry will be consulting further, later in the year, on the proposals for age legislation.

  In the meantime, we will build on the work already done through promotion of the Code of Practice for Age Diversity in Employment and the Age Positive campaign. The Government will continue to encourage all employers, including those in the public sector, to review their retirement policies to allow people who want to work beyond normal retirement age, and should they wish, beyond state pension age, to do so.

  In the Department, staff below the Senior Civil Service are able to choose to remain in employment beyond the age of 60 for any period up to the age of 65. The Department's flexible approach to age retirement allows staff to continue to work in their current grade and, subject to business need, to seek promotion to a higher grade or volunteer to down grade. Subject to business need, staff may also choose to work full-time or part-time. Senior civil servants can apply to work beyond age 60 where there is a business need.

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER

  Building Regulations (Home Energy Efficiency)
  Mr. Sayeed
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what training will be provided for building control officers to enable them to enforce the requirements of Part L of the new Building Regulations for England and Wales. [90803]

  Mr. Leslie
  Training of building control officers to equip them for the proper discharge of their enforcement duties is a matter for local authorities and approved inspectors. However, the office of the Deputy Prime Minister co-operates closely with these bodies and the professional institutions to facilitate training whenever amendments to the building regulations are made. Regarding Part L, my right hon. Friend the Member for Greenwich and Woolwich made arrangements for the publication of the new requirements almost a year before they came into effect, and officials gave presentations of the new provisions at many events in months preceding the effective date.

  Mr. Sayeed
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what proportion of new buildings constructed between July and September 2002 were built to the new thermal standards in Part L of the Building Regulations for England and Wales. [90804]

  Mr. Leslie
  The information requested is not held centrally, and could be provided only at disproportionate cost. The new thermal standards were introduced by SI 2001:3335 and came into effect on 1 April 2002, subject to transitional provisions. These provided that any planned new building that had received building control approval before 1 April 2002, or which had started on site before that date, could 666W
  proceed in accordance with the previous standards. All planned new buildings notified to the local authority under the Building Act on or after 1 April 2002 must comply with the new requirements. Between July and September 2002, there will thus have been some buildings being constructed to the old standards and some to the new standards. There is no centrally collected information on the proportions of new buildings in each category.

  Fire Service
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what progress has been made in the procurement of a national radio network for the fire service; and when he expects the budget to be complete. [90434]

  Mr. Raynsford
  A notice announcing the procurement was published in the official journal of the European Communities on 24 October 2002, approximately three months ahead of schedule. As a result 45 companies requested pre-qualification documentation. Subsequently 33 companies submitted a response; of these 17 wished to be considered as the main contractor and 13 as possible subcontractors. The evaluation of these responses is continuing and due to be completed during February 2003. Invitations to submit formal proposals will be issued to the pre-qualified organisations in May 2003.

  The budget for the ongoing costs of the project team is complete already: it is being funded from within the office of the Deputy Prime Minister resources. The budget for the main project investment will be in place before contracts fall to be signed, in financial year 2004–05.

  David Davis
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister when fire fighting personnel, including those military personnel on Operation FRESCO, have been redeployed from their home fire stations in each month since October 2002; and whether such stations are classified(a) rural and (b) urban. [90223]

  Mr. Raynsford
  Fire service redeployments are arranged at local level and are not recorded by Her Majesty's Fire Service Inspectorate. In a number of fire brigades responsibility rests at station level to arrange short term redeployments to maintain crewing on a day by day basis. In such cases the overall crewing level for the brigade would be recorded, but individual movements would not be directly measured. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is not aware of any significant movement between rural or urban areas.

  Armed Forces personnel were not attached to individual fire stations.

  Housing Need (Children)
  Mrs. Calton
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what plans he has to meet the housing needs of(a) homeless children and (b) families with children living in poor housing. [88540]

  Mrs. Roche
  Homeless children under the age of 16, are the responsibility of social services. Under the homelessness legislation, as amended by the Homelessness (Priority Need for Accommodation) (England) Order 2002 and the Homelessness Act 2002
  667W
  which both came into force on 31 July 2002, local housing authorities in England must ensure that suitable accommodation is available for children aged 16 or 17 who are homeless through no fault of their own (unless they are a relevant child for the purposes of the Children Act 1989 and the responsibility of social services).

  In terms of supporting families with children, in March 2002 the Government announced a commitment that by March 2004 local authorities shall ensure that no homeless family with children is in a Bed and Breakfast hotel (B&B) other than in an emergency, and even then for no more than six weeks.

  High B&B using councils have been required to submit action plans on how they intend to meet this commitment. The Homelessness Directorate is working closely with these and other lower using councils on delivery of these action plans. This has been supported by a £35 million grant programme in 2002–03 together with changes to housing benefit subsidy implemented by the Department for Work and Pensions.

  For 2003–04 the Homelessness Directorate will allocate up to a further £15 million to help authorities meet the March 2004 B&B commitment.

  On 3 December, I announced that the Government intends to outlaw the use of B&Bs for homeless families except in an emergency. The Government will be consulting in due course on options for strengthening the homelessness legislation by Order and through statutory guidance to:
  end the use of privately owned B&B establishments as temporary accommodation for homeless families with children except in emergencies and even then for no more than six weeks;
  set minimum accommodation fitness and proposed management standards in all temporary accommodation used by local authorities to house homeless households;
  set additional fitness standards for shared facility (B&B) type privately owned temporary accommodation used by local authorities to house homeless households.

  The Government has set a target to bring all social housing up to a decent standard and to increase the proportion of private housing occupied by vulnerable groups that is in a decent condition by 2010.

  The Government has also announced a new house-building programme worth more than £1.2 billion, up £365 million on the current year. The extra funds have been allocated to the Housing Corporation's Approved Development Programme (ADP) and should deliver up to 21,000 affordable homes in 2003–04.

  Light Pollution
  Mr. Luff
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what recent planning policy guidance he has issued on light pollution. [90388]

  Mr. McNulty
  A specific Planning Policy Guidance Note on light pollution has not been issued. However, in 1997, the Government issued "Lighting in the Countryside: Towards Good Practice". This document gives advice on the adverse effects of lighting schemes associated with development, both in the countryside and in the urban context.

  Local Government Reorganisation
  Mr. Gordon Prentice
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what estimate he has made of the cost, by English regions, of re-organising local government, should a decision be made to establish a regional assembly. [90701]

  Mr. Raynsford
  The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has made no estimate of the cost of reorganising local government in the English regions as this will vary significantly, dependent on which regions opt for elected Regional Assemblies, the extent of two tier authorities in these regions, the changes recommended by the Boundary Committee for England and subsequent decisions made by the newly created authorities about their organisational structure and levels of service provision. As indicated in the draft guidance to the Boundary Committee on which the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is currently consulting. A model is being developed to be available to the Boundary Committee, or those making proposals to the Committee, to assess the relative cost differentials of different unitary structures.

  Deprived Urban Post Office Fund
  Lynne Jones
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what his definition is of 'urban deprived' for the purpose of distribution of the Post Office Fund for Urban Deprived Areas; and if he will make a statement. [90043]

  Mr. McNulty
  For the purpose of distribution of the Deprived Urban Post Office Fund, an urban area is a ward in a community of over 10,000 people, while a deprived area is a ward in the 20 per cent. most deprived wards in England, as measured by the indices of Deprivation 2000.

  The Indices of Deprivation 2000 are measures of deprivation for every ward and local authority area in England. They combine a number of indicators which cover a range of domains (Income, Employment, Health Deprivation and Disability, Education, Skills and Training, Housing and Geographical Access to Services) into a single deprivation score for each area.

  The Deprived Urban Post Office Fund is only available to sub-post offices located in the 20 per cent. most deprived urban wards, with priority given to those located in the 10 per cent. most deprived urban wards.

  Sefton Council (Neighbourhood Renewal)
  Mrs. Curtis-Thomas
  To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how much funding Sefton council has received from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund; when funds were received; what projects have been funded and by how much; and which organisations are responsible for(a) managing and (b) delivering each project. [89485]

  Mrs. Roche
  Sefton council has received Neighbourhood Renewal Funding of £2,815,650 (2001–02), £4,223,475 (2002–03), with a further £5,631,300 to be made available during 2003–04.

  The projects in the following tables have been funded during the first two financial years. The commissioning process for year three has commenced, with no funding decisions reached as yet, although some initial approvals may be made on 13 January 2003.
  669W

  2001–02

  Project

  Funding (£)

  Managed and delivered by

  Raising Attainment

  277,732

  Sefton MBC

  Mentoring and behavioural support

  74,993

  Sefton MBC

  Alternative Curriculum

  92,497

  Sefton MBC

  Pilot Area Learning Support

  82,489

  Sefton MBC

  Crime Reduction

  48,260

  Merseyside Police

  Communities against Drugs

  50,600

  Merseyside Police

  Multi Agency Refurbishment of Premises

  20,000

  Merseyside Drugs Council

  Neighbourhood wardens

  244,583

  Sefton MBC

  South Sefton Healthy Neighbourhood Programme

  377,744

  South Sefton PCT

  Central Southport Healthy Neighbourhood

  36,254

  Southport and Formby PCT

  Healthy Workforce Development

  50,000

  Sefton MBC

  Alexandra Mount Parenting Centre

  50,000

  Sure Start Partnership and Parenting 2000

  Demolition of Princess Royal

  35,804

  Sefton MBC

  Move On Accommodation

  80,000

  Sefton MBC

  Park Lane Regeneration

  243,000

  Sefton MBC

  Greencroft Regeneration

  301,000

  Sefton MBC

  Feasibility Study for Environmental Improvements

  7,315

  Sefton MBC

  Environmental Improvements Fund

  182,422

  Sefton MBC

  Environmental Hit Squad

  107,847

  Sefton MBC

  Enhancing Citizens Panel in Bootle and Litherland

  11,074

  Sefton MBC

  Community Development Initiative

  1,707

  Sefton MBC

  Learning, Skills and Knowledge

  20,000

  Sefton MBC

  Neighbourhood Renewal Enabling Budget

  203,275

  Sefton MBC

  Total

  2,598,596

  Note:

  £217,054 funding carried over to 2002–03

  2002–03

  Project

  Funding (£)

  Managed and delivered by

  Schools for the community

  350,000

  Sefton MBC

  Raising Pupil Attainment

  149,509

  Sefton MBC

  Mentoring and Behavioural Support

  75,000

  Sefton MBC

  Alternative Curriculum

  92,500

  Sefton MBC

  Pilot Area Learning Support

  82,500

  Sefton MBC

  Neighbourhood Wardens

  100,000

  Sefton MBC

  Alchemy

  33,578

  Alchemy

  Crime Reduction

  50,553

  Merseyside Police

  Youth Inclusion Programme

  35,000

  Youth Offending Team

  Kids off the Streets

  243,000

  Sefton MBC

  Communities against Drugs

  100,000

  Merseyside Police

  SWACA—Centre of Excellence

  50,000

  Sefton Women and Childrens Aid

  South Sefton Healthy Neighbourhoods

  361,850

  South Sefton PCT

  Southport Healthy Neighbourhoods

  60,000

  Southport and Formby PCT

  Surestart Development Workers

  76,374

  Surestart Partnership

  Netherton Feelgood Factory

  200,000

  Netherton Feelgood

  May Logan Centre

  100,000

  May Logan Centre

  Brighter Living Initiative

  50,000

  Brighter Living Initiative

  Play Area Improvements

  166,500

  Childrens Fund/Sefton MBC

  Environmental Hit Squad

  343,645

  Sefton MBC

  Community Kerbside Recycling

  398,598

  Sefton MBC/Community Enterprise

  South Sefton Recycling Centre

  50,000

  Sefton MBC

  Community Environmental Manager

  33,000

  Sefton MBC

  Move on Accommodation

  80,000

  Sefton MBC

  Greencroft Regeneration

  300,000

  Sefton MBC

  Park Lane Regeneration

  240,000

  Sefton MBC

  Neighbourhood Area Panels

  17,000

  Sefton MBC

  Management Information Project

  44,000

  Sefton MBC

  Community Development Worker

  16,338

  Sefton MBC

  Community Development Worker—North Sefton

  30,000

  Sefton Council for Voluntary Services

  Neighbourhood Renewal Action Fund

  120,000

  Sefton MBC/Sefton Community Foundation

  I Kiosks

  63,000

  Sefton MBC

  Neighbourhood Renewal Facilitation Budget

  240,026

  Sefton MBC

  Learning, Skills and Knowledge

  36,212

  Sefton MBC

  One Stop Shops

  50,000

  Sefton MBC

  Total

  4,438,182

  670W

HEALTH

  Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning
  Mrs. Iris Robinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether there is scientific evidence to suggest that the presence of amnesic shellfish poisoning toxins in scallops represent a threat to human health; what scientific investigations have been carried out by the Government in relation to the impact of ASP on human health; and what scientific evidence was used to determine this level. [89453]

  Ms Blears
  The most recent significant outbreak of amnesic shellfish poisoning affecting humans was recorded in Canada in 1987. Approximately 150 people became ill; there were 19 people hospitalised and four deaths. Following the outbreak, the Canadian authorities imposed an action limit in mussels of 20mg/kg domoic acid per gram of tissue, above which harvesting was suspended. This was based on observations of those who became ill, including estimates of levels of toxins actually ingested.

  The European Union adopted this action limit for mussels and other bivalve molluscs including scallops in 1997 (Directive 97/61/EC). The Food Standards Agency has recently written to the European Commission asking them to consider the case for a scientific review of the current internationally accepted action level of 20 mg/kg in scallops, and how such a review may be taken forward.

  Mrs. Iris Robinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether the level of amnesic shellfish poisoning may vary from scallop to scallop; and on what basis the whole Irish Sea scallop fishery is closed when one particular scallop is detected with levels of AMP above that of the safety level. [89454]

  Ms Blears
  I am advised by the Food Standards Agency that the level of domoic acid, which causes amnesic shellfish poisoning, may vary from scallop to scallop. Closures of scallop fisheries are not based on the analysis performed on one scallop, but an homogenate sample of a number of scallops.

  Mrs. Iris Robinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health on what scientific evidence the decision was taken to impose the safety level of 20mg/kg of amnesic shellfish poisoning in scallops caught in UK waters; on which dates the Irish Sea scallop fishery was closed and reopened in each of the last five years; and what estimate she has made of the length of time that the Irish Sea scallop fishery would have been closed in each of the last five years had there been a safety limit of 4.6mg/kg for amnesic shellfish poisoning in place. [89455]

  Ms Blears
  Following an outbreak of amnesic shellfish poisoning in mussels in Canada in 1987, where approximately 150 people became ill, resulting in four deaths, the Canadian authorities imposed an action limit in mussels of 20mg/kg domoic acid per gram of tissue, above which harvesting was suspended.

  The EU adopted this action limit for mussels and other bivalve molluscs including scallops in 1997 (Directive 97/61/EC). This was implemented in Northern Ireland by the Food Safety (Fishery Products and Live Shellfish) (Hygiene) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern
  672W
  Ireland) 1999. The Irish Sea scallop fishery was closed from September 1999 to February 2000, and part closed from November to December 2002. The new level of 4.6 mg/kg forms part of a Commission Decision which member states have the option to implement. No final decisions have been made as to whether the United Kingdom will adopt this Decision. Full regulatory impact assessments will be prepared before any such decision is taken.

  Mrs. Iris Robinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his policy is with regard to the introduction of a 4.6mg/kg safety limit for amnesic shellfish poisoning toxins; and what estimate he has made of the likely effect upon the UK scallop fishery industry. [89456]

  Ms Blears
  Council Directive 91/492/EEC currently provides for production areas to be closed when amnesic shellfish poisoning toxin levels exceed 20mg/kg in whole scallops (or any part edible separately). The new level of 4.6 mg/kg forms part of a Commission Decision which member states have the option to implement. No final decisions have been made as to whether the United Kingdom will adopt this Decision. Full regulatory impact assessments will be prepared before any such decision is taken.

  Social Work Students (Bursary Scheme)
  Mr. Laurence Robertson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will estimate how many students will take up the Bursary Scheme to take the Diploma in Social Work. [90577]

  Jacqui Smith
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: The number of social work students who will be entitled to the bursary will depend on the number accepted onto courses by the universities and whether or not the student is in employment and supported through training by their employer. At the end of 2002 there had been 5,070 applications to the Social Work Admissions Service for social work courses beginning in September 2003.

  Elderly Care
  Mr. Wray
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures have been introduced since 1997 to help ensure that elderly people not capable of self-care can maintain the highest possible quality of life. [88875]

  Jacqui Smith
  Older people are the major users of health and social care. They have benefited, and will continue to, from the increased levels of funding of the national health service and social care services. Within this overall context and within the framework initially set out in the White Papers, "The New NHS: Modern; Dependable" (December 1997), and "Modernising Social Services" (November 1998), a range of measures have been introduced to ensure that older people's quality of life is maximised. They include:

  The NHS Plan;

  Saving Lives: Our Healthier Nation;

  NHS Direct;

  establishment of the Royal Commission on long-term care and response to its recommendation, including free nursing care;

  national service framework for older people, including the development of intermediate care facilities;

  availability of direct payments for older people;

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  increased funding for carers;

  Commission for Health Improvement;

  Essence of Care toolkit, aimed at assisting nurses and others to maintain and improve the quality of care; and

  establishment of the National Care Standards Commission, an independent body to regulate social and health care services, including domiciliary care agencies.

  'No Secrets' Guidance
  Mr. Burstow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans his Department has to review the implementation of the 'No Secrets' guidance. [89816]

  Jacqui Smith
  Under the 'No Secrets' guidance, local multi-agency codes of practice were to be implemented by 31 October 2001. The Department has since commissioned the centre for policy on ageing to analyse these codes. The analysis, entitled "No Secrets: Findings from the analysis of local codes of practice", is available in the Library and through the Department of Health website at www.doh.qov.uk/scg/nosecrets.htm.

  Additionally, the Department is funding the practitioner alliance against abuse of vulnerable adults to examine progress at local level on implementing key aspects of practice identified in "No Secrets".

  Abattoirs
  Andrew George
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what financial assessment he has made of the impact of European Commission Regulation COM (2002) 377 on abattoirs in the UK; what discussions he has had and what representations he has received on European Commission Regulation COM (2002) 377; what steps he is taking to assist abattoirs in meeting the requirements of the Regulation; and if he will make a statement. [89686]

  Ms Blears
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: The Food Standards Agency has published an initial regulatory impact assessment on its website as part of its stakeholder consultation on the Commission's proposed Regulation COM (2002) 377. That Regulation will provide rules for official controls on abattoirs. The Agency estimates the costs to the meat sector would be approximately neutral, although some abattoirs would benefit from reduced levels of veterinary supervision. How costs fall between industry and government will be dependent on a proposal for a further Regulation on official feed and food controls expected to be published shortly.

  The Agency's consultations on the Commission's official controls proposals have elicited a number of responses, many expressing concern should the proposals result in new unjustified burdens and costs on the abattoir sector. In addition the previous Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health (Yvette Cooper) received representations and had discussions with UNISON over the union's concerns that the proposal contained provisions allowing plant staff to carry out tasks currently undertaken by its members. I have received similar representations.

  Cancelled Operations
  Dr. Evan Harris
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list(a) the number of operations cancelled at the last minute and (b) the number of patients not readmitted within 28 days of their operation being cancelled in each of the last four quarters in (i) England and (ii) each NHS region. [89650]

  Mr. Hutton
  Quarterly data are collected on the number of operations cancelled by the hospital for non-clinical reasons (i) at the last minute (ie on the day patients are due to arrive or after arrival in hospital or on the day of their operation) and (ii) on the day of surgery.

  The NHS Plan cancelled operations guarantee has been in place since 1 April 2002 and since then, data have been collected on the number of patients not admitted within 28 days of cancellation on the day of surgery.

  Data have been aggregated to strategic health authority level since 1 April 2002. Trust level data have been collected since Quarter 1 2001–02. Prior to this, data were collected at health authority level.

  Data are available in the Library and on the Department's website at www.doh.gov.uk/hospitalactivity/data requests.htm.

  Tim Loughton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many operations were cancelled for NHS patients in each of the last six years. [89929]

  Mr. Hutton
  Quarterly data are collected on the number of operations cancelled by the hospital for non-clinical reasons (i) at the last minute (i.e. on the day patients are due to arrive or after arrival in hospital or on the day of their operation) and (ii) on the day of surgery. These data are available in the Library and on the Department's website at www.doh.gov.uk/hospitalactivity/data—requests.htm.

  Chris Grayling
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many operations have been cancelled by the NHS in each of the past eight quarters; and what percentage of these cancellations have not been rebooked(a) within a month and (b) for a date within two months, broken down by (i) Strategic Health Authority Area and (ii) NHS trust. [90433]

  Mr. Hutton
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: Quarterly data are collected on the number of operations cancelled by the hospital for non- clinical reasons (i) at the last minute (i.e. on the day patients are due to arrive or after arrival in hospital or on the day of their operation) and (ii) on the day of surgery. Data are also collected on the number of patients not admitted within 28 days of cancellation on the day of surgery.

  Data have been aggregated at strategic health authority (StHA) level since Quarter 1 of 2002–03. Prior to that, data was aggregated at regional level. Trust level data has been collected since Quarter 1 of 2001–02. Prior to this data were collected at health authority level. All the data can be accessed in the Library and on the Department's website at: www.doh.gov.uk/hospitalactivity/datarequests.htm.
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  Since 1 April 2002, the NHS Plan cancelled operations guarantee has been in place. National Health Service trusts are performance managed on their performance against the NHS Plan guarantee by StHAs. Patients re-booked within 28 days are not separately identified in the data and may have had their operation cancelled in the previous quarter. Therefore, it is not statistically valid to calculate the percentage of patients who have been re-booked as a proportion of those cancelled.

  Care Homes
  Mr. Burns
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the average fee paid per week by each local social services department to private care homes for clients in(a) nursing and (b) residential care was in 2002, broken down by local authority in England; and what the average costs were for self-funders. [89695]

  Jacqui Smith
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: Information regarding the average fee paid per week by each social services department and the average fee paid by self-funders is not kept centrally. The setting of fee levels by local councils is a matter for local decision. Councils must take into account a range of factors and market conditions when negotiating fee levels. Fee levels for self-funders is a matter negotiated between the home and the individual requiring care or their representative.

  Children in Custody
  Mr. Dawson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what advice he has given to(a) the Care Standards Commission and (b) Social Services Department since 29 November on the application of the Children Act 1989 to children held in prison custody. [88234]

  Jacqui Smith
  The Howard League for Penal Reform took the Home Office to judicial review over a statement in Prison Service guidance that the Children Act 1989 did not apply to children under the age of eighteen in prison establishments. Mr. Justice Munby's judgment, handed down on 29 November, ruled that the Children Act 1989 applied to children in prison, subject to the requirements of imprisonment. The judgment upheld the Prison Service's policy in relation to juveniles in custody. One sentence in its policy, which was to be changed regardless of the outcome of the judgment, has been found to be wrong. This will now be changed by the Home Office in the context of the judgment.

  The Department therefore sees no immediate need to revise existing guidance to councils with social services responsibilities, or to the National Care Standards Commission (NCSC). In the latter case, this is because the NCSC is responsible for children's services, regulated under the Care Standards Act 2000, which does not include prison establishments. However, we will, together with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department, carefully study Mr. Justice Munby's judgment, in the context of the recommendations of the Joint Chief Inspectors' report, "Safeguarding Children".

  Consultants
  Mr. Weir
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many medical consultants undertake work in the private sector, broken down by nation and region. [90759]

  Mr. Hutton
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: We do not collect information centrally about the proportion of consultants working in the private sector in England and Northern Ireland. Information about the consultant workforce in Scotland or Wales is a matter for the Scottish Executive or the National Assembly for Wales.

  NHS Dentistry
  Mr. Pike
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department proposes to take to increase NHS Dental Service provision in the Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale area; and if he will make a statement. [89594]

  Jacqui Smith
  Patients in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale can, where necessary, gain access to national health service dental services by calling NHS Direct.

  The working group, 'Options for Change', has proposed new methods of service delivery and would allow the NHS locally to place a greater emphasis upon preventive care and reducing oral health inequalities.

  Mr. Peter Viggers
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what NHS dentistry services are available to new adult patients in the Gosport area. [89858]

  Ms Blears
  [holding answer 14 January 2003]: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Strategic Health Authority has confirmed that currently no national health service dentists within Gosport are accepting new adult patients. Emergency dentistry for new adult patients, is available from the dental access centre in Fareham. Dental practices in Gosport will also provide emergency treatment to such patients.

  New patients wishing to access NHS dentistry in the surrounding area can obtain information on practices accepting adult patients from Fareham and Gosport Primary Care Trust or NHS Direct. The strategic health authority has advised me that registrations are being accepted in Southsea, Portsmouth and Cosham.

  Drugs (Black Market)
  Tim Loughton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what investigations have been undertaken by his Department into reports of Aids drugs provided at cost to African countries being resold in the UK; what assessment he has made of the level of drugs provided at cost by pharmaceutical companies in Africa being resold illegally in the UK or Europe; and what drugs are involved. [89937]

  Ms Blears
  The enforcement group of the Medicines Control Agency is currently investigating one suspected case of diversion in the United Kingdom.

  There is no current assessment of the quantity of drugs potentially diverted.
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  Drugs identified to date involved in diversion in Europe are Epivir and Combivir.

  Food Safety
  John McDonnell
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the Government's policy on the use of disclaimers by restaurants when selling undercooked meat products. [88988]

  Ms Blears
  Any person who sells food for human consumption in a restaurant, or indeed elsewhere, which fails to comply with food safety requirements is guilty of an offence.

  The food safety requirements, as set out in Section 8 of the Food Safety Act 1990, contain three alternative limbs.

  The first states that the food must not have been rendered injurious to health by means of certain operations, e.g. adding articles or substances to the food or subjecting it to processes or treatments.

  The second is that the food must not be unfit for human consumption.

  The third is that the food must not be so contaminated that it would not be reasonable to expect it to he used for human consumption in that state.

  If food is sold which breaches any of the three limbs then, regardless of a disclaimer, an offence is committed.

  Mrs. Calton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health on what statistical baseline from laboratory reports in 2000 the Food Standards Agency has based its target for reduction of food-borne illness; and what the most recent performance statistics are in relation to this target. [88715]

  Ms Blears
  The Food Standards Agency's target for reducing food-borne illness by 20 per cent. by 2006 is based on laboratory reports of the five major food-borne pathogens (Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli 0157, Listeria and Clostridium perfringens), excluding cases reported as having been acquired abroad. These data are collected by the Public Health Laboratory Service communicable disease surveillance centres in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and by the Scottish Centre for infection and environmental health for Scotland.

  When the baseline was announced in August 20011, there were 65,209 confirmed laboratory reports in the year 2000. However, it should be noted that the majority of people with food-borne disease do not consult a doctor or have a specimen sent for laboratory testing, and therefore the number of cases of food poisoning will be significantly higher.

  Updates on progress against the target will be reported annually to the Board and can be downloaded from the Agency's website.

  The figures for 2001 (the year in which the Agency's strategy for reducing food-borne disease was being finalised) were reported to the Board in May 2002, and showed a small increase (1 per cent.) in the number of cases.
  1www.food.gov.uk/news/pressreleases/poisoningreduction

  Foundation Hospitals
  Dr. Fox
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether an individual will be able to serve again on a board of governors of an NHS foundation hospital after a period of time has elapsed between the completion of the maximum of nine years' service and the recommencement of a further term. [87804]

  Mr. Hutton
  The position is as set out in paragraph 2.28 of "A Guide to NHS Foundation Trusts". Details will be set out in forthcoming legislation.

  Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what funding his Department makes available to increase consumption of fruit and vegetables. [84460]

  Ms Blears
  The Department of Health and the New Opportunities Fund have together made £55.3 million available for initiatives to increase fruit and vegetable consumption since the 2000–01 financial year.

  In addition to the above, initiatives to increase fruit and vegetable consumption have been funded through health action zones, sure start, healthy living centres and through general funding allocations to health authorities and primary care trusts.

  General Agreement on Trade in Services
  Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether provisions under the proposed GATS will affect decisions over the provider of publicly financed health services; and if he will make a statement. [90041]

  Mr. Hutton
  General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) cannot prevent Governments from regulating to meet national policy objectives. These rights are enshrined in GATS itself and repeated in negotiating guidelines for current negotiations. The Government has made clear to the House in the past that we have no intention of making GATS commitments that could call into question our ability to continue providing public services such as health or education.

  Heroin
  John Mann
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how his Department defines treatment for heroin misusers. [90557]

  Ms Blears
  The recently published models of care document, which has the status of a national service framework for substance misuse, defines treatment for heroin users as follows:

  Drug treatment needs to be comprehensive and multifaceted. Local specialist substance misuse treatment systems need to include a range of interventions, including advice and information, harm reduction, structured programmes of psychological therapies in conjunction with substitute prescribing where appropriate and residential provision. There should be a range of interventions and a range of treatment philosophies.

  HIV
  Mr. Portillo
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what advice his Department(a) issues and (b) endorses

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  on the likelihood of HIV being transmitted through oral sex; and if he will estimate the proportion of HIV cases contracted in the last 12 months that can be attributed to oral sex. [90930]

  Ms Blears
  A statement of risk on 'Oral sex and transmission of HIV', together with a question and answer briefing, was issued by the Department of Health in June 2001. This was distributed widely to health professionals and the voluntary sector and is available from the Department's website http://www.doh.gov.uk/eaga/hivoralsex.pdf).

  For the general population, advice on the transmission of HIV via oral sex is available through a number of sources funded by the Department. These include sexual health leaflets, the Sexual Health and National AIDS Helpline and the website which supports the Department's new safer sex campaign. In addition, Terrence Higgins Trust are funded by the Department to produce health promotion materials for gay men. These include leaflets (specifically 'The Manual' and 'Man[sex]Man') with messages around oral sex. The advice is consistent with the statement of risk issued in 2001.

  Oral sex is common in both homosexual and heterosexual relationships, but its frequency among men who have sex with men has highlighted its potential contribution to HIV transmission. Recent information collected by the Public Health Laboratory Service found that, in 2 per cent. of new HIV cases in men reported as infected through sex between men, they believed themselves to have been infected through oral sex. On following up these reports, more probable routes of infection than oral sex were found in some men. Hence the true proportion of new HIV cases that can be attributed to oral sex will be less than 2 per cent.

  Homeless People
  Dr. Evan Harris
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent representations he has received on the difficulties of homeless people in accessing health services, particularly during winter; and if he will make a statement. [81679]

  Ms Blears
  I have received no recent representations on this subject. However, the Government fully recognises the difficulties which people who are homeless face in accessing health services. The first point of contact with the national health service should usually be primary care and the Department has taken a range of actions to improve the accessibility of primary care services for homeless people and later this month will be reminding general practitioners that people do not need to have a permanent address to register with them.

  HPA
  Chris Grayling
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many staff the HPA Steering Group has who are dedicated exclusively to setting up the new organisation. [90062]

  Ms Blears
  The implementation team co-ordinating the arrangements for the establishment of the Health Protection Agency has eight full-time staff. They are 680W
  joined on particular issues by a number of part-time team members and others drawn from the current organisations and the Department of Health.

  Chris Grayling
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what arrangements have been made for liaison between the National Radiological Protection Board and the HPA whilst the latter remains constituted as a Special Health Authority. [90089]

  Ms Blears
  I wrote to the chairs of the bodies most affected by our proposals for creating a Health Protection Agency on 15 November 2002, setting out the decisions we had taken following consultation on the Agency. Copies of the letters are available in the Library. In doing so, I made clear that it is important that the Health Protection Agency and the National Radiological Protect Board should work closely and effectively together from April 2003 to help achieve improvements in services to users. In the first instance, and subject to the legislation establishing the Agency being put in place, it will be for the Agency and the Board to decide how to achieve this. We shall hold them to account for doing so.

  IVF Treatment
  Mr. David Stewart
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent meetings he has had with the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority to discuss revisions to their Code of Practice on IVF treatment. [90615]

  Ms Blears
  Departmental officials discuss revisions to the code of practice at regular meetings with the executive of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). The most recent meetings were on 10 December 2002 and 9 January 2003. Ministers also meet regularly with the chair of the HFEA to discuss issues including the code of practice; the last meeting was on 30 October 2002. The HFEA members intend to consider the latest revision at their meeting on 16 January, when departmental officials will be present as observers. It is anticipated that a revised code of practice will be issued in February.

  Lifestyle Survey
  Mr. Chope
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) if he will place in the Library a copy of the most recent annual national survey of lifestyle conducted by his Department; [84467]

  (2) what the cost to his Department was in 2001–02 of conducting a national survey of lifestyle; and what benefits have resulted therefrom. [84461]

  Ms Blears
  The Department commissions a number of annual surveys that include questions on lifestyle issues, such as the Health Survey for England.

  The annual cost of the Health Survey for England is around £2.8 million. The cost of the other survey activity is around £0.7 million.

  The Health Survey for England is a major vehicle for providing valuable annual data about the nation's health and the information is used to underpin strategies for promoting better health. It is unique in providing objective measures of health such as measurements of height, weight, blood pressure and analysis of blood

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  samples, together with information from questionnaires. It also contains a wealth of socio-demographic data, which is valuable for monitoring inequalities in health. It has established itself as an important research tool.

  Secondary analysis of health survey information on many topics has been published in national and international journals.

  Copies of all the surveys commissioned by the Department are routinely placed in the Library. The next report of the Health Survey for England is due to be published on 20 January.

  Mental Health Services
  Mr. Paul Marsden
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what patient advocacy services are available to(a) disabled and (b) ethnic minority mental health patients. [86147]

  Jacqui Smith
  A number of nationally and locally based advocacy services are available to help disabled and ethnic minority mental health patients. A range of agencies, including the voluntary sector provides these services. The Department is also providing three year funding for the United Kingdom Advocacy Network (UKAN) to develop standards in independent advocacy whereby they are establishing programmes of regional training courses for advocates. UKAN also employs a worker to work specifically on advocacy issues affecting black and minority ethnic groups.

  The majority of national health service trusts and primary care trusts now have a patient advice and liaison service to advise patients, their carers and families about how to access appropriate advocacy services.

  Microbiology Laboratories
  Chris Grayling
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many state-run microbiology laboratories have not applied for clinical pathology accreditation. [90136]

  Ms Blears
  We do not collect this information centrally.

  Mobile Phone Masts
  Norman Baker
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of the public health implications arising from the placing by mobile phone companies of masts in(a) chimney stacks, (b) drainpipes, (c) alarm boxes and (d) other adjuncts to domestic properties; if he will take steps to ensure the location of such masts is maintained on a register open to the public; and if he will make a statement. [90343]

  Ms Blears
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: The public health implications of mobile phone base stations were assessed by the independent expert group on mobile phones (IEGMP). Their report, the Stewart Report, concluded that the balance of evidence indicates that there is no general risk to the health of people living near to base stations on the basis that exposures are expected to be small fractions of guidelines.
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  Measurements undertaken by the National Radiological Protection Board and the Radiocommunications Agency (RA) have confirmed that public exposures are very much lower than the international guidelines. These results are available to the public from these organisations' websites, at www.nrpb.org and www.radio.gov.uk. Network operators have undertaken to ensure that all base stations will be designed and sited so that members of the public will not be exposed in excess of the recommended basic restriction.

  The IEGMP noted that if people are unduly concerned about potential exposures then that in itself may affect their well-being. A number of recommendations of the group were, therefore, designed to provide more information to people about local base stations. One of these measures was to develop the 'Sitefindeemobile phone base station database, which is a national database of mobile phone base stations and their emissions. The database is managed by the RA, an executive agency of the Department of Trade and Industry, on behalf of the Government. The database provides information on all operational, externally sited, cellular radio transmitters in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and is updated every three months.

  National Radiological Protection Board
  Chris Grayling
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health where the National Radiological Protection Board will have its headquarters after 1 April. [90090]

  Ms Blears
  There are no plans to move the headquarters of the National Radiological Protection Board after 1 April.

  Overseas Treatments
  Tim Loughton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many NHS patients have been treated in continental European hospitals since the ruling by the European court; which continental European hospitals have been used by NHS patients and what operations have been carried out; and if he will list the origin of NHS patients who have received treatment in continental European hospitals by PCT area. [89930]

  Mr. Hutton
  Since the ruling of the European Court of Justice in July 2001, a total of 234 national health service patients have received treatment abroad as part of the overseas treatment programme. All of these referrals have been to hospitals in continental Europe.

  Patients have received treatment in two hospitals in France and eight hospitals in Germany. The French hospitals are Polyclinique de la Louviere, Lille and Institute Calo-Hadin, Berck Sur Mer. The German hospitals are Lutherhaus, Essen; Eduardus Krankenhaus, Cologne; Henriettenstiftung, Hanover; Das Klinikum, Osnabruck; Gilead, Bielefeld; Endo Klinik, Hamburg; Ostseeklinik, Damp; and a clinic in Celle.

  Of the 234 patients who have received treatment abroad, 197 were orthopaedic patients and 37 were ophthalmology patients.
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  Details of the origin of the patients are held by health authority area. Portsmouth, Isle of Wight and South East Hampshire health authority has referred 50 patients abroad. West Sussex and East Surrey health authorities have referred 50 patients abroad. East Kent health authority has referred 126 patients abroad. Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire health authority has referred eight patients abroad.

  Pneumococcal Disease (PHLS Programme)
  Chris Grayling
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many service level agreements he estimates will be required to maintain the programme co-ordinated by the PHLS on pneumococcal disease. [90048]

  Ms Blears
  There will be no service level agreements to maintain the Public Health Laboratory Service (PHLS) co-ordinated programmes on pneumococcal disease. All work for the Department of Health by PHLS on pneumococcal disease are part of the core funding provided by the Department.

  Private Sector Services
  Lynne Jones
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the present annual cost is to the NHS of recurrent services provided by the private sector; what his estimate is of the likely cost over the next three years; and what proportion of total NHS spending this represents. [90040]

  Mr. Hutton
  Data are not held centrally on all service contracts held by national health service bodies with private sector organisations and could be collected only at disproportionate cost. Information is available centrally on private finance initiative (PFI) schemes and spending on healthcare provided by non-NHS bodies.

  Data on the revenue consequences of NHS PFI schemes, for example estimated payments to the private sector under signed PFI contracts, is provided each year to the Health Select Committee of the House and to the Office of Government Commerce for their biannual returns to Parliament on PFI transactions contained in the budget report. Outturn figures for the last closed financial year (2001–02) and estimated payments for the following three years are in the table:

  Payments (£000)

  As a proportion of total NHS revenue expenditure1(%)

  2001–02

  221,334

  0.5

  2002–03

  314,613

  0.6

  2003–04

  405,303

  0.7

  2004–05

  419,465

  0.7

  12001–02 as measured on Stage 1 Resource Budgeting basis.

  2002–03 onwards on Stage 2 Resource Budgeting basis.

  In 2001–02 (the latest year for which information is available), NHS trusts, primary care trusts and health authorities in England spent approximately £1.8 billion on the purchase of health care from non-NHS bodies. This figure includes expenditure on services provided by all non-NHS bodies, including local authorities and other statutory bodies, as well as private healthcare providers, and cannot be broken down by type of
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  provider. This represents around 3.8 per cent. of total NHS revenue expenditure. We have not estimated the level of equivalent spending in future years.

  Residential Homes
  Paul Flynn
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to improve surveillance of the elderly in residential homes in order to protect them from abuse. [90250]

  Jacqui Smith
  We believe that determining the appropriateness of specific measures for surveillance in care homes is best done locally, on a home by home basis. National Care Standards Commission area offices are best placed to assess the need for such measures in a particular care home within the broad statutory guidelines. In doing so they should take into account such things as the perceived needs of residents; the prevention of abuse; residents' right to privacy; staff training, numbers, and supervisory arrangements. These needs will vary from home to home and from area to area.

  Residential/Nursing Home Beds
  Mr. Burstow
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many residential and nursing home beds were available in England in 2002, broken down by local authority. [90034]

  Jacqui Smith
  Information for 2002 is not yet centrally available.

  Safer Travel to School
  Dr. Fox
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much money was disbursed under the safer travel to schools initiative; how many projects benefited; and what evaluation he has made of the initiative. [84021]

  Ms Blears
  Local safe routes to school schemes are being developed as part of local transport plans. The Department for Transport allocated £620 million to local authorities for small-scale schemes such as road safety and measures to encourage walking and cycling, including up to 800 more safe routes to school in the 2002–03 local transport plan settlement.

  According to local transport plan annual progress reports (APRs) submitted to the Department for Transport in August 2002 1,782 safe routes to school schemes were in place in April 2002, with a further 1,543 planned for 2002–03. The APRs also showed that safe routes schemes to 8,006 schools, or about 35 per cent., of schools, are planned by 2006.

  Between 1999 and 2001, this Department also developed and funded the safe and sound challenge scheme, which disbursed around £210,000 to over 80 schools to implement initiatives to promote healthy active modes of travel. We commissioned follow up monitoring and evaluation of some of the schemes, which had been funded in the first two years of the challenge. The results showed that schools had successfully implemented school travel initiatives with the funding that had been awarded. However, it was not possible to establish whether any real changes in school travel patterns had occurred, as most schools did not have baseline data for comparison.

  Smoking
  John Robertson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health what action he is taking to discourage smoking in public places. [89056]

  Ms Blears
  The Government have no plans to implement a ban on smoking in public places.

  This year the Department is funding local tobacco control alliances across England to carry out projects in close co-operation with local employers to tackle passive smoking and to increase the number of smoke-free environments. These projects vary in nature from the production of 'smoke free' guides to pubs and restaurants to the provision of advice and support to managers wishing to introduce policies. We hope that many will be suitable for national application.

  We will also be increasing the visibility of health messages highlighting to smokers the risks environmental tobacco smoke presents. This is through regulations to transpose into United Kingdom law the EU Directive on the Manufacture, Presentation and Sale of Tobacco Products. These regulations require tobacco products to carry larger and starker health warnings, on both the front and back of the packet. The dangers of passive smoking are highlighted in two of the new warnings, which include "Smoking Seriously Harms You and Others Around You" and "Protect Children: Don't Make Them Breathe Your Smoke".

  Sterile Service Facilities
  Mr. Oaten
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health how much his Department plans to spend on centralised sterile service facilities for the NHS in England during the(a) 2003–04 and (b) 2004–05 financial years. [90292]

  Mr. Lammy
  The following figures represent money for investment in new and improved services, it does not include the cost of day-to-day running of sterile services departments or money invested by health bodies from their own resources:

  2003–04: £134 million1

  2004–05: £30 million

  1£114 million brought forward from 2002–03.

  Mr. Oaten
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) if he will make a statement on his Department's plans for a new network of centralised sterile service facilities for the NHS in England; [90303]

  (2). what discussions his Department has had with suppliers for the proposed network of centralised sterile service facilities for the NHS in England; and which suppliers these were; [90304]

  (3). whether procurement for the new network of centralised sterile service facilities for the NHS in England will be on a single national basis or by sub-region; [90305]

  (4). when his Department will begin procurement for the new network of centralised sterile service facilities for the NHS in England; and if procurement will be open to a full range of suppliers; [90291]

  (5). how many units will comprise the new network of centralised sterile service facilities for the NHS in England. [90293]
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  Mr. Lammy
  [holding answer 13 January 2003]: We envisage a mixed economy in decontamination services provided to the national health service. Local needs and facilities will determine the way in which the service is provided locally but all will be provided to a nationally agreed set of standards.

  It is not possible to say at this stage how many centres there will be in total, nor how many procurements there will be, or when they will take place, but we expect the first—covering the Bradford Hospitals NHS Trust and The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust—to be advertised in the Official Journal of the European Communities (OJEC) before the end of 2002–03. All procurements will be carried out in accordance with the rules of the European Union.

  The Department is actively seeking to develop the market in sterile services and is encouraging new entrants as well as existing suppliers to participate in procurements. To that end, officials have met existing and potential suppliers on over 100 occasions: in specially arranged conferences and workshops, private meetings with individual companies, visits to reference sites and meetings with trade associations. It would be a breach of commercial confidentiality to disclose the names of the companies involved.

  Tuberculosis
  Tim Loughton
  To ask the Secretary of State for Health pursuant to his answer of 3 December, Ref 83323, what extra funding has been made available to health authorities with levels of tuberculosis higher than the national average. [86805]

  Ms Blears
  The level of funding is still under consideration.

LORD CHANCELLOR'S DEPARTMENT

  Custodial Sentences
  Mr. Gibb
  To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department if he will list the offences for which his Department's guidelines recommend a custodial sentence. [90423]

  Yvette Cooper
  My Department does not issue guidelines on sentencing. Determination of the correct sentence in any given case is a matter for judicial discretion, taking into account any guidance issued by the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) and relevant legislation.

NORTHERN IRELAND

  Confederation of European Councillors Year Book Launch
  Andrew Mackinlay
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what his policy is on Ministers from his Department attending events in conjunction with Ministers from the Republic; and how this policy was applied with reference to the invitation to join
  687W
  Pat Gallagher TD at the launch of the Confederation of European Councillors' Year Book at Newry on 7 January. [90105]

  Mr. Paul Murphy
  Where diary commitments permit, I, and my ministerial team, seek to accept as many invitations to events as we are able to. No Northern Ireland Office Minister attended the event in Newry on 7 January 2003 to launch the Confederation of European Councillors' Year Book and Diary 2003, as there is no record of an invitation to the event having been received by any Northern Ireland Office Minister.

  Andrew Mackinlay
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on what date his Department received the invitation by the National Association of Councillors (Northern Ireland) for a Minister to attend the launch of the Confederation of European Councillors' Year Book at Newry on 7 January; on what date follow-up telephone requests were logged; and if he will make a statement of his Department's handling of the invitation. [90106]

  Mr. Paul Murphy
  There is no record of an invitation by the National Association of Councillors (Northern Ireland) to the launch of the Confederation of European Councillors' Year Book and Diary 2003 on 7 January 2003, having been received by my Department or any Northern Ireland Office Minister. There is no record of any follow-up telephone calls specifically relating to this matter.

  Andrew Mackinlay
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland for what reason no Minister, or departmental representative attended the launch of the Confederation of European Councillors' Year Book at Newry on 7 January, co-hosted by the National Association of Councillors (Northern Ireland) and the Local Authority Members Association of the Republic. [90107]

  Mr. Paul Murphy
  No Northern Ireland Office Minister or departmental representative attended the launch of the Confederation of European Councillors' Year Book and Diary 2003, as there is no record of an invitation to the event having been received by any Northern Ireland Office Minister or Department.

  Correspondence
  Andrew Mackinlay
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if there is a policy in his Department relating to the receipt and processing of letters from local authorities in relation to(a) their acknowledgement, (b) the normal period for the dispatch of a substantive reply and (c) when it is appropriate to dispatch an interim or holding reply; and if he will make a statement. [90497]

  Mr. Paul Murphy
  My Department complies with the Six Service Standards for General Government. To meet the key standard of answering letters quickly and clearly, the Department has set itself a target of responding, in full, within 15 working days of receipt. This is in regard to general correspondence and would include any responses to local authorities. The procedures my Department follow are in accord with the Government guidance which requires that correspondence be acknowledged on receipt or within a688W
  targeted period and if it becomes clear that a full reply cannot be provided within the deadline, then a holding reply will issue.

  Following the guidance from Cabinet Office on the handling of correspondence from Members of Parliament, the Department has set itself a target time of replying to this type of correspondence within 10 working days. As with other correspondence, the Department strives to issue a substantive reply within the target time. When this is not possible, an interim or holding reply issues as a matter of courtesy and to reassure the correspondent that their letter has been received and that action is being taken.

  Diabetes
  Mrs. Iris Robinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people in Northern Ireland suffer from type I and type II diabetes mellitus; and what estimate he has made of the prevalence of this condition in Northern Ireland and the rest of the United Kingdom. [82216]

  Mr. Browne
  The 1997 and 2001 Northern Ireland Health and Social Wellbeing Surveys indicated that 3 per cent. of the population aged 16 and over (approximately 39,000 adults) had been told by a doctor that they had diabetes. About three-quarters of these are estimated to be Type II diabetics who developed the condition in adulthood.

  Ethical Banking
  Mr. Gardiner
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what contracts have been concluded as a result of the Government's commitment to support ethical banking. [89947]

  Mr. Pearson
  The Government believe it is important for consumers to have choice in financial products, including the availability of 'ethical' products. However, it would not be appropriate for the Government to exclusively support the development of one specific group of financial service providers. It is for individual consumers to decide the attributes they most value from their financial services and for financial services firms to be transparent about their use of funds and investments.

  EU Fishing Grants
  Mr. Dodds
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the total amount of European Union grants to the fishing ports of(a) Kilkeel, (b) Portavogie and (c) Ardglass was in each financial year since 1997. [85690]

  Mr. Pearson
  The information requested is not held in the format requested and could not be provided without disproportionate cost.

  Total grants paid to each of these locations under the European Union Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance (FIFO) over the period were as follows.
  689W

  £

  Kilkeel

  Portavogie

  Ardglass

  1997–98

  0

  22,447

  33,789

  1998–99

  115,285

  21,732

  8,411

  1999–2000

  316,975

  322,469

  0

  2000–01

  163,665

  198,317

  5,837

  2001–02

  25,390

  280,904

  0

  Total

  621,315

  845,869

  48,037

  Other examples of European Funding to these areas include:
  £3,043 was paid to Ards Borough Council in November 2002 for the refurbishment of self-catering chalets in Portavogie. The funding was made available from Priority 1 'Economic Growth and Competitiveness'. Measure 4 'Local Economic Development' of the Building Sustainable Prosperity Programme.
  £14,781 was paid to Newry and Kilkeel Institute of Further and Higher Education in April 2001 to bring together people from Portadown, Newry, Dundalk and Kilkeel, giving them the opportunity to explore each others culture through a series of leadership activities and workshops. Of this total £3,695 was targeted at Kilkeel. The funding was made available from Sub-Programme 3 'Cross-Border Development', Measure 1 'Business and Cultural Linkages' of the Peace I Programme.
  Over the period 1994–2002, some £10.3 million was invested in processing and marketing projects, most of them located in the three fishing ports, of which 35 per cent. was EU Structural Funds (from FIFO), 5 per cent. national funding, and the remainder private investment.

  Former Military Sites
  Mr. Dodds
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will estimate the costs of setting up the structures proposed in relation to former military sites in the Strategic Investment and Regeneration of Sites Order. [86625]

  Mr. Pearson
  No decisions have been made about the sites or how they will be developed. As stated in the Explanatory Memorandum to the Draft Strategic Investment and Regeneration of Sites Order, operating costs in relation to development corporations or regeneration companies could be in the range of £1 million to £2 million each. Such a cost may only be relevant for the larger sites.

  House Seller's Pack
  Mr. Dodds
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to introduce a requirement for the vendor of a house to provide a seller's pack to prospective buyers in Northern Ireland. [83115]

  Mr. Browne
  The proposal to impose a condition on house vendors to produce a sellers information pack for prospective purchasers is aimed at making the home buying process in England and Wales more transparent and certain. Officials at the Department for Social Development continue to monitor developments with a view to determining whether there may be merit, at some time in the future, in introducing similar measures in Northern Ireland.

  Human Organs Inquiry
  Mrs. Iris Robinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the report of the Human 690W
  Organs Inquiry has been referred to (a) the Police Service of Northern Ireland and (b) the Director of Public Prosecutions. [83560]

  Mr. Browne
  The report of the Human Organs Inquiry has not been referred to the Police Service of Northern Ireland or to the Director of Public Prosecutions. While the Report criticises past practices it does not indicate that any member of staff within the Health Service acted outside the law.

  Mrs. Iris Robinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action he plans to take with reference to members of medical and managerial staff in the three hospitals named in the report of the Human Organs Inquiry. [83561]

  Mr. Browne
  There are no plans to take action with reference to any member of the medical or managerial staff employed at Altnagelvin, Craigavon area hospital or the Royal group of hospitals. Action is being taken to implement all the recommendations of the report by he Human Organs Inquiry. This will include new legislation with criminal penalties for the breach of its provisions.

  Industrial/Provident Societies
  Mr. Gareth Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many industrial and provident societies have addresses registered in Northern Ireland. [86627]

  Mr. Pearson
  There are 167 industrial and provident societies with a registered office address in Northern Ireland.

  Mr. Gareth Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations he has received about reform of industrial and provident society law in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement. [86628]

  Mr. Pearson
  No representations have been received. I have however announced on 29 November 2002 details of a major review of Industrial and Provident Society law in Northern Ireland. The review process has already commenced with the first phase scheduled for completion in October 2003.

  Mr. Gareth Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many industrial and provident societies in Northern Ireland have a turnover in excess of £1 million. [86629]

  Mr. Pearson
  The statutory annual returns held on file in Companies Registry indicate that 33 societies have a turnover or income in excess of £1 million.

  Mr. Gareth Thomas
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many representations he has received about reform of industrial and provident society law; and if he will make a statement. [86630]

  Mr. Pearson
  No representations have been made. However, as stated in my answer to (86628), I have recently announced a major review of industrial and provident society law in Northern Ireland. The review has already commenced with the first phase scheduled for completion in October 2003.

  Londonderry
  Mr. Dodds
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the Heart of the City study relating to Londonderry will be published for public consultation. [87334]

  Mr. Browne
  In March last year, the Department of Social Development announced that it had appointed consultants W S Atkins to undertake an urban design study for the centre of Londonderry. The study intends to develop a strategic framework to inform the future development of key city centre sites such as Ebrington Barracks, Fort George and Queen's Quay.

  "Heart of the City" aims to enhance the quality of urban design and architecture in the central core of Londonderry.

  In October 2002 W S Atkins undertook some public consultation on their draft proposals, including a presentation to Derry City Council and three workshops. This resulted in extensive local media coverage on the Heart of the City study.

  W S Atkins are currently compiling their final report, which will include revised sections on the economic viability of the key proposals in the study. It is expected that the final report will now be presented to the Department in January 2003.

  The Department for Social Development proposes to publish the report for wider public consultation in February 2003.

  Northern Ireland Railways
  David Burnside
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland which Minister was responsible for the placing of an order for 23 new train sets for Northern Ireland Railways; who signed the contract; and on what date it was signed. [90763]

  Angela Smith
  The Minister responsible for transport matters at the time the order for 23 new trains was placed was Mr. Peter Robinson MP, the Minister for Regional Development in the Northern Ireland Assembly. The contract was signed on 28 February 2002 by Dr. Joan Smith and Mr. Ted Hesketh, on behalf of Northern Ireland Railways and by Sr Luis Capuchino, on behalf of Construcciones y Auxliar de Ferrocarrilles SA, the Spanish company that will supply the trains.

  Post Offices
  Mr. Beggs
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the total value is of funding available to support(a) urban and (b) rural post offices in Northern Ireland. [83247]

  Mr. Browne
  There is no specific funding allocated to Northern Ireland in respect of either urban or rural post offices.

  Social Security Appeals Service
  Mr. McGrady
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many cases are waiting to be listed for social security appeals tribunals; how long these cases have waited; how many of these cases are for 692W
  (a) disability living allowance and (b) incapacity benefit; what centres these hearings will be listed for; and if he will make a statement. [82762]

  Mr. Browne
  The total number of social security cases waiting to be listed for hearing by an appeal tribunal was 5,368 at I October 2002. This included 3,111 appeals relating to disability living allowance and 1,644 relating to incapacity benefit. The current average waiting time to list an appeal for a first hearing is 19 weeks for disability appeals, nine weeks for social security appeals and 13 weeks for medical appeals. The number of cases to be held in each centre is set out in the following table.

  The hearings for the cases waiting to be listed are likely to be held at the following locations:

  Tribunal centre

  Number of cases to be heard

  Armagh

  60

  Banbridge

  37

  Belfast

  1,765

  Ballymena

  191

  Ballymoney

  30

  Cookstown

  55

  Craigavon

  223

  Coleraine

  197

  Dungannon

  124

  Downpatrick

  125

  Enniskillen

  156

  Londonderry

  254

  Limavady

  51

  Magherafelt

  80

  Newcastle

  18

  Newtownards

  176

  Newry

  270

  Omagh

  122

  Strabane

  84

  Strategic Investment Board
  Mr. Dodds
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will estimate the costs associated with proposals to set up a Strategic Investment Board for Northern Ireland. [86621]

  Mr. Pearson
  As stated in the Explanatory Memorandum to the Draft Strategic Investment and Regeneration of Sites Order, operating costs could be in the range of £2–£3 million.

  Teachers
  Mrs. Iris Robinson
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the(a) satisfaction and (b) needs of teachers in Northern Ireland; and what plans he has for further research. [90621]

  Jane Kennedy
  My Department funded the Teachers' Health and Well-being Survey, which was the first of its kind for Northern Ireland's teaching profession. The report, which I launched on 16 December 2002 in partnership with the employing authorities and the teacher unions, shows that 57.7 per cent. of respondents were either very satisfied or satisfied with their jobs while 22.2 per cent. were either dissatisfied or very dissatisfied. The remainder fell in between both groups.

  There was a relatively high response rate to the survey by teachers. Their valuable feedback will be taken fully into account by the employing authorities, working

  693W
  closely with my Department and the teacher unions, in implementing the report's recommendations so that support services continue to improve to meet the needs of teachers. The report has been published on my Department's website and an executive summary has been sent to all teachers. There are no immediate plans for further research.

  University Top-Up Fees
  Mr. Dodds
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make an assessment of the impact of the introduction of university top-up fees on universities in Northern Ireland. [86619]

  Jane Kennedy
  The Government are currently preparing a strategy document setting out their vision for the development and reform of higher education, including student finance. The final proposals will be published in January 2003. Until then I am not in a position to comment on the matter.

  University Research Funding
  Mr. Dodds
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland why the results of the 2001 Research Assessment Exercise relating to university funding for Northern Ireland are not being funded. [86460]

  Jane Kennedy
  I am pleased to advise that, in the financial year 2003–04 and in each of the subsequent two financial years an additional £10 million has been allocated to the two universities for research related 694W
  work. This increase is in response to their improved performance in the recent Research Assessment Exercise and in recognition of the essential role played by the universities in overall research and development in Northern Ireland.

  Mr. Dodds
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the level of central Government funding for university research for the current year for Northern Ireland per head of population was. [86463]

  Jane Kennedy
  Recurrent grant aid to the Northern Ireland universities for 2002–03 from the Department for Employment and Learning, based on the 2001 Census figures, amounts to £16.41 per head of population. Additionally, £4.09 per head is profiled to be spent through the Support Programme for University Research and £1.74 through the Science Research Investment Fund. These figures disregard capital funding not specifically for research initiatives and research funded by other Departments.

  West Credit Card
  Mr. McCrady
  To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if the investigation into the West Credit Card Scandal has been completed; and when the report of the investigation will be made available to Parliament. [90182]

  Mr. Pearson
  A report on the allegations made about the affairs of Into the West (Tyrone & Fermanagh) Ltd. is well advanced and a final report will be issued to the funding bodies and the Northern Ireland Audit Office by February 2003.

  Iran: Arms Embargo
  Iran: Arms Embargo
  National Criminal Intelligence Service
  National Criminal Intelligence Service
  Exmoor:Deer Conservation
  Exmoor:Deer Conservation
  DfES:Staffing
  DfES:Staffing
  NHS Foundation Trusts
  NHS Foundation Trusts
  Northern Ireland Implementation Bodies: Pension Provision
  Northern Ireland Implementation Bodies: Pension Provision
  Teaching Qualifications
  Teaching Qualifications
  Northern Ireland Ambulance Service
  Northern Ireland Ambulance Service
  Northern Ireland:National Museums and Galleries
  Northern Ireland:National Museums and Galleries
  Northern Ireland Office:Parliamentary Questions
  Northern Ireland Office:Parliamentary Questions