To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list (a) the name, (b) the salary, (c) the previous occupation and salary and (d) the terms and conditions of each political and special adviser in his Department; and what was the selection process used to appoint these persons. [2425]

I have appointed Mr. Joe McCrea as my special adviser. He was previously my research assistant. The terms and conditions of his appointment are set out in the draft model contract, copies of which have been placed in the Library.Special advisers are paid within a range of £24,349 to £73,484. Their salaries are negotiated individually and are confidential within this range. Details of this and of previous salary are not provided in order to protect the privacy of the individuals concerned.This is a personal appointment made by me following consultation with the permanent head of the Department and the Prime Minister.