To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what his policy is on the inclusion of Ministers from the devolved Administrations in (a) Northern Ireland, (b) Scotland and (c) Wales in the United Kingdom delegation at future EU ministerial negotiations on (i) fisheries, (ii) agriculture and (iii) environmental policy. (139883)

[holding answer 4 June 2007]: As specified in the memorandum of understanding between the UK Government and the devolved Administrations, decisions on ministerial attendance at EU Council meetings will be taken on a case-by-case basis by the lead UK Minister. In reaching decisions on the composition of the UK team, the lead Minister will take into account the extent to which substantive discussion is expected of matters likely to have a significant impact on devolved responsibilities.