To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families how many official journeys (a) he and (b) his officials have made by plane since his Department was established. (247506)

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families has not made any official journeys by plane.

The number of plane journeys taken by DCSF officials was 815. The data provided is based on bookings dealt with by the DCSF’s business travel booking service provider (Carlson Wagonlit Travel).

Any flights not booked by the Department’s travel provider can be provided only at disproportionate costs.

Travel by Ministers and civil servants is undertaken in accordance with the “Ministerial Code” and the “Civil Service Management Code” respectively.