The full information requested could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
Details of formal, standing bodies set up by Government to provide independent expert advice to Departments and Ministers are published annually by the Cabinet Office. These bodies, known as advisory non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs), are listed in the annual ‘Public Bodies’ publication. Copies of ‘Public Bodies’ dating back to 1999 can be viewed and downloaded from the following websites:
1999-2006: <http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/about/public/bodies .asp>;
2007: <http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/publications /3599.aspx>;
2008: <http://www.culture.gov.uk/reference_library/publications /5125.aspx>.
Copies are also available up to 2007 in the Library for the reference of hon. Members.
Since 2003, the Government have published on an annual basis the appointment of special advisers.