HC Deb 16 September 2003 vol 410 c637W
Norman Baker

To ask the Leader of the House what plans he has to propose measures to allow hon. Members to challenge a refusal by a Minister to provide information requested by means of a written parliamentary question. [129257]

Mr. Hain

Ministers answer questions in accordance with the requirements set out in the Ministerial Code, the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information and guidance on disproportionate cost. As the Ministerial Code makes clear, it is for individual Ministers to account for their decisions and actions. If a Member of Parliament is unhappy with the answer received to a parliamentary question, he or she should raise the matter with the relevant Minister. There are no plans to propose changes to current practice.