asked the Minister for the Civil Service how many former Members of Parliament, former Labour councillors and former trade union officers now hold appointments at the Government's pleasure; how many hold offices in quasi-autonomous, non-governmental organisations, and what is the total remuneration paid to them.

The information sought is not held centrally by Departments or by the Civil Service Department. To collect it—as an accurate and comprehensive answer could be provided only by checking posts with all office-holders—would be a major task incurring a disproportionate cost.