To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many dedicated full-time equivalent staff of each grade work for the Minister for the West Midlands in his capacity as such; and what the cost of these staff is expected to be in 2007-08. (181930)

The Government office for the west midlands supports the role of the regional minister. This support was provided by one full-time equivalent staff when the role was created and has now expended into two full-time equivalent staff to manage the delivery of the Minister's priorities in the region at an average salary cost of £94,000. It can also call on Government specialists in the field to provide support regarding Government priorities as appropriate.