To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what the role is in his private office of Sheree Dodd; what the cost to public funds has been to date for the employment of Ms Dodd; and if he will make a statement. (78227)

The person named does not have any role in my private office.

The Department for Communities and Local Government is continuing to provide my media support until the recent machinery of Government changes are complete. Specific staff issues are the responsibility of the civil service; I am not involved in any such appointments. Staff costs will be accounted for in the Department’s annual report and accounts in the usual way.