To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what the job specification is of his Department's expert adviser Ruth Mackenzie; what the difference is between a special adviser and an expert adviser in his Department; and on what contractual terms Ruth Mackenzie is employed. (308798)

Ruth Mackenzie's role is to provide expert advice on cultural and broadcasting issues. She is on secondment from the Manchester International Festival. She was appointed by the Department, with the agreement of the Civil Service Commissioners. She is subject to the full requirements of the Civil Service Code—unlike special advisers who, as set out in the Code of Conduct for Special Advisers, are exempt from some of its requirements and are directly appointed by Ministers.