To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the average hourly rate paid to consultants hired by his Department was in each of the last five years. (162076)

The rates paid to consultants reflect the scope and duration of the work; the grade and experience of the consultant(s) chosen for the work; and supply market conditions.

The Department does not hold information centrally on the average hourly rate paid to consultants hired by the Department in each of the last five years. The information could be provided only at disproportionate cost.