asked Her Majesty's Government:

What appointments the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland undertook in the second, third and last weeks of January in Northern Ireland. [HL1713]

My right honourable friend the Secretary of State has regular meetings with political parties, local politicians, the Minister of State, internal and external stakeholders and his officials.

The disclosure of the information requested, including details of internal or interdepartmental meetings with Ministers or officials, would be prejudicial to the effective conduct of public affairs.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Lord Rooker on 6 February (WA 188) concerning appointments by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what was the purpose of the meeting on 10 December 2007 with Chris Sidoti; what was discussed and agreed; and whether they will place detailed minutes in the Library of the House. [HL1918]

The meeting that took place on 10 December 2007 was an introductory meeting between the Secretary of State and Chris Sidoti. The purpose of the meeting was for Chris Sidoti to be introduced to the Secretary of State and to update him on the work of the forum.

It is not common practice to place minutes of such meetings in the Library of the House.