To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if officials seconded by his Department to work with the European Commission are required to promote and pursue the policies of Her Majesty's Government in relation to the availability of vitamin, mineral and other dietary supplements; what codes of practice apply to the employment of such officials by commercial companies or organisations following their secondment; and if he will make a statement. [35098]

Officials seconded to the European Commission work for the Commission and have no role in promoting the Government's views. The normal business appointment rules apply to such staff as they do to all civil servants.