To ask Her Majesty's Government from whom HM Treasury seeks specialist advice on banking issues when negotiating rescue packages for banks. [HL1834]

To ask Her Majesty's Government from whom HM Treasury seeks specialist advice on pension issues in the banking sector. [HL1835]

As the Memorandum of Understanding between HM Treasury, the Bank of England and the FSA sets out, the tripartite authorities have regular meetings and discussions to work together towards the common objective of financial stability in the UK.

In addition, the Treasury takes advice from a range of sources, including other government departments as relevant, both government and commercial lawyers on legal issues, and external accountancy and investment banking advisers as appropriate.