asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Lord Rooker on 3 March (WA 155) concerning the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, what are the rules governing when a letter is to be sent as a result of a Parliamentary Question. [HL2322]

I refer the noble Lord to the Answer given today, 19 June, (HL2518).

When a letter is sent as a result of a Parliamentary Question it is customary to place a copy of the letter in Hansard.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Why some Written Answers about the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission are substantive and others advise the questioner to write to the commission; and what is their policy in this area. [HL2518]

The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission remains independent of government. Where Questions relate to our sponsorship of the commission, including its mandate as set out in the Northern Ireland Act 1998 and its budget as allocated by the Northern Ireland Office, we will attempt to provide as substantive a response as possible.

Where a Question refers to a policy or operational matter of the commission, I will ask the noble Lord to take this up directly with it. I am advised that the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is happy to discuss any concerns, either in person or in writing.