On 1st February 2015 guidance was implemented by the Cabinet Office explaining the principles and process to be followed when considering the use of settlement agreements when terminating employment resulting in the requirement to seek Ministerial approval. DWP would use confidentiality clauses only with great exception and after obtaining appropriate approval. We have no record of DWP ever having requested, let alone received, such approval. During the period 2005 to February 2015 records covering the use of any such agreements are not held centrally and can be provided only at disproportionate cost.