asked Her Majesty's Government:

Why the Lord Marlesford's Questions for Written Answer tabled on 23 and 24 May (HL 5953 and HL 6000) remain unanswered after eight weeks, bearing in mind that Questions should be answered within two weeks; and whether reprimands will be issued to the officials concerned for the delay.[HL7082]

The questions concerned have been answered on 19 July (WA 186) and 25 July (WA 270) respectively.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there is an obligation on officers of health authorities or NHS trusts to reply where a Question for Written Answer has been referred to them by a Minister.[HL7293]

When the Department of Health cannot provide the information requested by a Member or Peer, the matter may be referred to the relevant NHS organisation concerned to provide a full response. The expectation is that this would be provided as promptly as possible. If my noble friend is aware of a specific problem then I will be happy to look into this on receipt of further information.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Baroness Scotland of Asthal on 28 July (HL7082), which did not address the questions put by the Lord Jopling, whether the Answer was in accordance with the appropriate Code of Conduct for Ministers.[HL7303]

My reply to the noble Lord was both accurate and truthful and sought to answer the fundamental concern that had been raised regarding the failure to reply to previously tabled Parliamentary Questions. As such, it was in accordance with the requirements of the Ministerial Code.