To ask the President of the Board of Trade what distinction his Department draws between the role of executive and non-executive directors; and whether non-executive directors are expected to supervise the day-to-day work of the executive directors. [33013]

The distinction between executive and non-executive directors is not defined in company law. However, I agree with the recommendation in the Cadbury code of best practice that non-executive directors should bring an independent judgment to bear on issues of strategy, performance and resources, including key appointments, and standards of conduct.