To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether deposits by (a) North Lincolnshire Council and (b) other local authorities in failed overseas banks will be fully protected by the Government. (226827)

[holding answer 14 October 2008]: I refer the hon. Member to the written ministerial statement given by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (Hazel Blears) on 14 October 2008, Official Report, columns 34-36WS.