Written Answers
Wednesday, 21st October 1998.
Asylum Applications: "Fast Track" Procedure
asked Her Majesty's Government:How many applications for asylum have been dealt with under the "fast track" procedure since the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996 came into force; how many applications for judicial review there have been in respect of negative "fast track" determinations, and what proportion of these have been successful; what is the average cost of appeals under the fast track procedure, including judicial review where applicable, and what are the comparable figures for the standard mechanism, all to the latest convenient date. [HL3398]
As at the end of September 1998, 22,855 refusals of asylum in the United Kingdom have been certified and have entered the "fast track" appeal process following the implementation of aspects of the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996 regarding certification on 21 October 1996.It is estimated that the process of appeal to the special adjudicators in each asylum application costs, on average, £600. I regret that no estimate of the cost of appeal, including judicial review, is available; nor is there a separate estimate for asylum applications that were certified.The information requested regarding judicial review in asylum applications that were refused and certified would be available only through checks on individual case files at disproportionate cost.
Mercenaries
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether in the light of the Sandline affair, and the privatisation and commercialisation of security in Africa and elsewhere, they will consult with other states with relevant experience including particularly South Africa, and with the Special Rapporteur, Mr. Enrique Bernales Ballesteros, on amending the International Convention against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries. [HL3180]
Her Majesty's Government are concerned about the spread of mercenary activity. We have been studying measures taken by other governments to curb such activity and have been considering why the UN Convention on the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries has attracted relatively few ratifications. We will be discussing these matters with the UN's Special Rapporteur on Mercenaries in due course.
China: Population Policies
asked Her Majesty's Government:What representations were made to the Chinese Government during the Prime Minister's visit to China about their coercive one-child policy, and their pursuit of forced sterilisation and forced abortion of women who have more than one child. [HL3382]
The issue of China's population policies was not raised during the Prime Minister's visit to China.China's population policies are regularly addressed in multilateral fora such as the UN Population Fund and International Planned Parenthood Federation, to which the UK is a major contributor.
Indonesia: The Balibo Incident
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether, during recent meetings with the Indonesian President, they have been able to raise the Balibo incident of October 1975. [HL3457]
The Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Fatchett) raised our concerns about the Balibo incident with President Habibie during a visit to Indonesia on 8 October. The President undertook to investigate the matter.
Education (Grammar School Ballots) Regulations
asked Her Majesty's Government:What representations they have received about the draft Education (Grammar School Ballots) Regulations, and when revised regulations will be laid before the House. [HL3510]
Three hundred and twenty-two responses were received in the department about the draft regulations which were sent out for consultation on 3 June. Copies of these have been placed in the Library. We have today laid revised draft regulations before the House.
Environment Council: 6 October
asked Her Majesty's Government:What was the outcome of the Environment Council on 6 October. [HL3509]
My right honourable friend Mr. Michael Meacher represented the United Kingdom at the Environment Council which took place in Luxembourg on 6 October.The Council agreed Conclusions which prepare the Community's negotiating position for the Fourth Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework on Convention on Climate Change taking place in Buenos Aires on 2–13 November. Through Conclusions the Council also endorsed the commitment by the European Car Makers Association (ACEA) to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from new cars. This agreement between the Commission and ACEA will cut carbon dioxide emissions from new cars by 25 per cent. by 2008 and play a considerable role in reducing greenhouse gas emission in the European Union. Ministers also discussed for the first time two proposals which complement that agreement. These will require the monitoring of carbon dioxide emissions from new cars and similarly provide a scheme for labelling the fuel economy performance.First ministerial discussions were held on a number of other important dossiers. I gave general support to the directive concerning end of life vehicles whilst stressing that member states should be given reasonable flexibility in implementation. A brief initial discussion was also held on the Commission proposal for a new regulation introducing stricter controls on substances that deplete the ozone layer, which the UK supports in broad terms. The Council also reached agreement on a Resolution on Environment and Employment.The Council noted the progress of discussions in working group on directive proposals to reduce emissions from heavy goods vehicles and to revise the proposal controlling the deliberate release of genetically modified organisms. These will return to the Council in December. Informal discussions were held over lunch on the environmental implications of Community enlargement and on the integration of environmental objectives into other policy areas.
Transport Council: 1 October
asked Her Majesty's Government:What was the outcome of the Transport Council held in Luxembourg on 1 October. [HL3497]
The Transport Council met in Luxembourg on 1 October. My right honourable friend Dr. John Reid represented the United Kingdom.The Council agreed common positions on two legislative proposals, and held useful discussions on some other important areas of transport policy.In land transport, the Council reached a common position on a directive which will facilitate the free movement of transportable pressure equipment within the Community. The text which was agreed met a UK concern that the industry itself should be able to continue to carry out inspections of this type of equipment, under the necessary supervision.
The Commission reported on the recent Swiss referendum on lorry charges. The referendum approved a law allowing the Swiss Government to impose Alpine transit charges, which would be higher than those foreseen by the draft EC/Switzerland transport agreement. The Commission now hoped that agreement could be reached on the EC/Switzerland agreement at the next Transport Council.
There was also discussion of the directive on charging of heavy goods vehicles for the use of certain infrastructures (the Eurovignette).
The Council debated the directive amending Community rules on the promotion of combined transport. This would require reduced taxes for lorries engaged in combined transport and would permit lorries above current Community weight limits to carry out such operations. There was discussion of the need for careful definition of combined transport, if the proposal was to lead to a real incentive to reduce road mileage. The proposal will continue to be examined with a view to reaching agreement at the next Transport Council.
The Commission reported that, following the break-down of negotiations between employers and employees on working time in road transport, it would propose the extension of the working time directive to non-mobile workers in road transport, and a separate measure for mobile workers. The latter would cover own-account operators and self-employed drivers.
The Commission presented its new proposals on rail access and charging rules. Member states generally welcomed the proposals, which aim to contribute to the revitalisation of the Community's railways by clarifying the regulatory framework for the provision of rail services. The Presidency concluded that the Council would look again at these proposals at its next meeting.
In air transport, the Council reached a common position on a regulation to restrict the use of older aircraft which have been modified ("hush-kitted") to meet the latest noise regulations, but which produce more noise than newer aircraft. The United Kingdom expressed its disappointment at the suspension of Gibraltar from the scope of this regulation, especially as Gibraltar is covered by existing EU legislation on aircraft noise. The UK reluctantly agreed to suspension on this occasion, to allow progress on this measure, which is important to all member states.
The Council noted progress on a Commission proposal to amend the rules on compensation for passengers denied boarding on overbooked flights. The UK made it clear that it supports this proposal and that it would oppose the inclusion of clauses suspending application to Gibraltar. The Presidency said that it would attempt to secure agreement on the regulation at the next Transport Council and urged rapid progress.
Following further discussion of civil aviation relations between the EC and the US, the Presidency said that the proposal to give the Commission a mandate to negotiate market access would continue to be examined, in the hope of reaching a conclusion at the next Council.
The Italian Minister requested a discussion of the Commission's Decision that the decree requiring movement of airlines' operations to the new Milan Malpensa airport was discriminatory and illegal. Ministers agreed that the matter should be resolved bilaterally between the Commission and Italy.
Basel Convention: Decision Iv/9 Amendment
asked Her Majesty's Government:What was the outcome of the application of the amendment to the Basel Convention as laid down in Decision IV/9 of the Parties to the Convention. [HL3495]
Command Paper 4061 which sets out details of the Decision IV/9 amendment has been laid before the House.This amendment helps to clarify which wastes will be subject to the ban on the exports of hazardous wastes to developing countries. Rules to implement the amendment within the EC have been agreed by member states.The amendment will enter into force for all parties to the Basel Convention on 6 November 1998, except for those who notify the Depositary, in writing by 6 November 1998, that they are unable to accept it.The Basel amendment represents yet another milestone in securing an environmentally sound regime for the movement of hazardous wastes. We are pleased to announce therefore that the Decision IV/9 Basel Amendment will enter into force for the UK on 6 November 1998.
Regional Development Agencies: Guidance
asked Her Majesty's Government:What guidance they intend to give to regional development agencies in relation to their regional strategies. [HL3499]
The Government intend to give to regional development agencies guidance on the formulation of their regional strategies under the powers being taken in Clause 7 of the Regional Development Agencies Bill. Consultation on draft guidance begins today. A copy of the draft guidance is in the Library.
Bellwin Scheme: Financial Assistance For Flooding
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they will provide financial assistance to Warwickshire County Council, Stratford on Avon District Council, Worcester City Council and Northampton Borough Council under the Bellwin scheme for costs incurred following the severe flooding on the weekend of 9 to 12 April. [HL3498]
Warwickshire, Worcester, Northampton and Stratford upon Avon councils are all to be given cash under the Bellwin scheme after successful applications.We are satisfied financial assistance under the Bellwin scheme is justified in these cases given the exceptional nature of the floods and the damage they caused. Schemes will, therefore, be established under Section 155 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Grant will be paid to each authority to cover 85 per cent. of eligible costs above a threshold and which have been incurred by the authority in dealing with the flooding.
National Air Quality Strategy
asked Her Majesty's Government:When the current review of the National Air Quality Strategy will be completed. [HL3500]
My honourable friend Angela Eagle the then Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, announced on 23 June, Official Report (HC Deb. WA 431–432) that the review of the National Air Quality Strategy, originally planned for 1999, would now be completed by the end of this year, to look at the prospects of delivering cleaner air more quickly. We can confirm that we are on course to meet this and we aim to publish our proposals to amend the strategy for consultation in the New Year.
National Forest: East Midlands
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they will report on the National Forest Company's progress in creating the National Forest in the East Midlands. [HL3494]
We have arranged for copies of the National Forest Company's Annual Report and Accounts for 1997–98 to be placed in the House Libraries.
Illegally Operated Heavy Goods Vehicles
asked Her Majesty's Government:What was the outcome of the recent consultation on a scheme for the impounding of illegally operated heavy goods vehicles. [HL3502]
The consultation period ended on 29 May. There were 36 responses. These showed overwhelming support for our proposals. We are now working up a comprehensive detention scheme with the aim of bringing it into effect at the earliest available opportunity. This will require primary legislation.
National Air Traffic Services Ltd
asked Her Majesty's Government:When they expect to announce proposals for a public/private partnership for National Air Traffic Services Ltd. [HL3503]
We have today published a consultation paper on the Government's preferred option for a public/private partnership (PPP) for National Air Traffic Services Ltd.The safe and efficient provision of air traffic control services is rightly a matter of great public interest and, since the PPP was announced, a debate has begun on key issues such as safety, the national interest and public accountability. The Government now want to launch a structured, full and open consultation on these issues. The consultation document therefore sets out a wide range of matters on which we are looking for views. Safety remains our top priority and we believe that the proposed PPP offers the opportunity to establish a structure which will strengthen safety, satisfy the public interest and the needs of aviation users while providing for the sound future of National Air Traffic Services Ltd. and its employees.We hope that all those with an interest in this subject, whatever their views on the Government's preferred option, will take the opportunity to respond to the consultation document.
Road Traffic Reduction Act 1997
asked Her Majesty's Government:What plans they have to implement the Road Traffic Reduction Act 1997. [HL3496]
It is clear that the setting of road traffic reduction targets will be an integral part of the process of drawing up local transport strategies. Local transport plans are a centrepiece of the Government's transport proposals and it is vital that we get implementation right. We have listened to the Local Government Association and local authority concerns about the difficulty of producing robust local transport plans by July 1999. We will therefore invite local highway authorities to produce "provisional" five year plans by July 1999, covering the period 2000/01–2004/05. These would be the basis for allocating resources for 2000/01 only. Authorities would then roll their plans on by one year and submit "full" plans for 2001/02–2005/06 in July 2000, when resources would be allocated across the plan period.Statutory reports produced under the provisions of the Road Traffic Reduction Act 1997 will therefore be submitted in July 2000, as part of the first round of full local transport plans. We will expect authorities to submit non-statutory "interim" road traffic reduction reports in July 1999, as part of the provisional plans.The London boroughs are not covered by the White Paper requirement to produce local transport plans, but will be separately required to produce local implementation plans which are in keeping with the Mayor's integrated transport strategy for London. We are taking this forward separately.The Road Traffic Reduction (National Targets) Act 1998 requires the Government to consider the setting of national targets. We will therefore require a greater degree of standardisation from local authorities in the measurement of existing traffic levels and forecasts—in order that we can assess the national implications. We believe this can be done by building on the data already collected for national surveys. It will take some time to get an assessment framework in place. This is something we would like to take forward jointly with local authorities under the auspices of the Transport Statistics Liaison Group. The existing draft guidance on the Road Traffic Reduction Act 1997 will be revised in the light of this work. The Government have also undertaken that they will produce a first report to Parliament on the issue of national traffic targets by the end of 1999 (which will also need to reflect the views of the Commission for Integrated Transport, when appointed). To achieve this, they will need to draw on existing sources of information together with any useful inputs from local authorities from their 1999 plans, accepting that at this stage the material will not be in a standardised format.
Ufos: Mod Answering Machine
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they will ensure that the answering machine which the Ministry of Defence uses both to explain its policy on unidentified flying objects and to provide a facility for the public to report sightings is turned on at all times and not switched off outside working hours. [HL3407]
Yes.
Medical Negligence Claims
asked Her Majesty's Government:What activity the Department of Health is currently engaged in to review its exposure to medical negligence claims and its processes and procedures for dealing with them. [HL3460]
On 29 April 1998 my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Health wrote to a number of organisations representing professional, legal, National Health Service and patient interests seeking their views on what can be done to reduce the number of incidents which give rise to claims, how to manage patient expectation and how to improve the handling of claims which do arise. Officials are in the process of studying replies in order to identify suggestions which might be taken forward in the future.
Working Group On Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: Membership
asked Her Majesty's Government:Who are the members of the key group and the children's sub-group of the Working Group on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, with their current appointments and interests. [HL3445]
The arrangements for the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Working Group are being finalised. The working group will comprise a key group, a reference group and a children's sub-group. Invitations have been sent to health service professionals, academics, representatives of voluntary groups and patients to be members of these groups.Details of members of both the key group and the children's sub-group will be announced shortly.
Ec Aid Budget: Fraud
asked Her Majesty's Government:What steps they take to ensure proper accounting for the United Kingdom's share of the European Community Aid Budget; and following recent reports of fraud and misuse of this budget, what further measures they intend to put in place. [HL3379]
The Government consistently support measures to improve the financial management and control of the Community budget. In particular they support measures to strengthen the role of the European Court of Auditors which were agreed at the Amsterdam Intergovernmental Conference last year. Improving financial management and strengthening the fight against fraud were priorities of the UK Presidency of the EU.The Government are very concerned at allegations that there has been fraud or misuse in the EC Humanitarian Office (ECHO). The indications are that the fraud consisted of recruiting and paying for extra staff through false contracts, with the aim of supplementing over-stretched Commission staff. We will need to await the outcome of investigations before reaching firm conclusions.The lead in these investigations is taken by the Commission's anti-fraud unit, UCLAF. The Government take a close interest in the work of UCLAF. The European Parliament has called for UCLAF to be transformed into an independent anti-fraud office, and the Commission has undertaken to bring forward proposals on this. We will look carefully at these proposals and will support them if they are the best way to prevent fraud in the future.
Scotland: Eu Membership
asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether, in the event of a declaration of independence by the Scottish Parliament, membership of the European Union would remain vested in the United Kingdom Government at Westminster; and [HL3364]What their position would be with regard to an application by an independent Scotland for membership of the European Union. [HL3365]
These are entirely hypothetical questions which would only need to be addressed in the context of negotiations leading to the establishment of an independent Scotland, for which the Government have no plans. Since the constitution and international relations will be reserved matters following devolution, the question of Scottish independence and arrangements for the United Kingdom's membership of the European Union will remain a matter for the UK Parliament at Westminster.
Income Inequality
asked Her Majesty's Government:What steps they intend to take, in the light of the Eurostat survey of poverty and income distribution in 13 European Union countries, to lower the inequality in income between the richest 10 per cent. in the United Kingdom and the poorest 10 per cent. which respectively receive 26.1 per cent., and 3 per cent. of national income. [HL3381]
The latest edition of Households Below Average Income (HBAI) covering the period 1979–1996/7 was published on 15 October. HBAI provides a more detailed picture than that available from the Eurostat survey. The HBAI estimates show that an important cause of income inequality is the substantial number of working age people living in low income, workless families. Our New Deal initiatives will help young people, lone mothers, the long term unemployed and sick and disabled people back to work. The HBAI figures also show that a significant number of pensioners remain on persistently low incomes. We believe that the introduction of the minimum income guarantee and our ongoing work on how to get help to the poorest pensioners will address this issue.
Euro: Redenomination Of Share Capital
asked Her Majesty's Government:What steps they are taking to help companies to redenominate share capital to prepare for the euro. [HL3485]
I am very keen to play a full part in helping UK business prepare for the euro. The DTI's consultation "The Euro: Redenomination of Share Capital" showed that companies are starting to consider whether to redenominate their share capital as the euro becomes widely-used in Europe. Existing Companies Act 1985 procedures for the reorganisation of share capital are not specifically designed for redenomination of shares, and can place an unnecessary burden on companies in terms of cost, and the requirement for formal court approval to any reduction in share capital.I propose to seek amendments to the Companies Act 1985 to provide a specific mechanism for companies to use in redenominating their share capital. The new mechanism would permit companies to resolve that references in any document to share capital denominated in one currency would be to the equivalent amount in euro (or another currency). A resolution of each class of shareholders would be required (although a resolution of the board would suffice where the company was redenominating into euro during any transitional period to membership of the single currency).The new mechanism would also permit companies to adjust the resulting nominal or par values of the shares to a more convenient figure in euro (or other currency), subject to shareholder approval and without the need for court approval. There would be no requirement for companies to issue new share certificates following redenomination.The second part of my proposal relates to the requirement in Section 118 of the Companies Act 1985 that public companies should have a minimum amount of authorised and issued share capital of £50,000. Currently the Act requires this amount to be denominated in sterling, although companies can and do issue share capital in other currencies, over and above the minimum amount. Companies have told this department that they favour having the flexibility to denominate the whole of their share capital—including the minimum amount—in a foreign currency; and I propose to seek an amendment to the Companies Act 1985 to allow them to do so.In preparing the new legislation the DTI will issue a further consultation document in the New Year with the detailed proposals for change.
Ministerial Committees Of The Cabinet
asked Her Majesty's Government:If they will publish an updated list of Ministerial Committees of the Cabinet. [HL3525]
An updated list of the names and membership of the Ministerial Committees which my right honourable friend the Prime Minister has established to date appears below. In addition to the members listed, other members are invited to attend meetings as and when business requires:
Ministerial Committee on Economic Affairs (EA)
Composition:
- Chancellor of the Exchequer (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Health
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for Social Security
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Other Ministers are invited to attend for items in which they have a departmental interest.
The Chief Scientific Adviser attends for issues relating to science and technology.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider issues relating to the Government's economic policies."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on Energy Policy (EA(N))
Composition:
- Chancellor of the Exchequer (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Paymaster General, Treasury
- Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
- Minister of State, Scottish Office
- Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office
- Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Welsh Office
Terms of Reference:
"To consider the principles and objectives which should underlie the United Kingdom's energy strategy; and make recommendations for an energy strategy to the Ministerial Committee on Economic Affairs."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on Welfare to Work (EA(WW))
Composition:
- Chancellor of the Exchequer (Chair)
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for Social Security
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Paymaster General, Treasury
- Minister of State, Home Office
- Minister of State, Department for Education and Employment
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Other Ministers are invited to attend for items in which they have a departmental interest.
Terms of Reference:
"To develop policies to get people from welfare to work and to report as necessary to the Ministerial Committee on Economic Affairs (EA)."
Ministerial Committee on Public Services and Public Expenditure (PSX)
Composition:
- Chancellor of the Exchequer (Chair)
- Lord Chancellor
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Other Ministers are invited to attend for matters in which they have a departmental interest.
Terms of Reference:
"To monitor progress against public service agreements, to review public expenditure allocations and make recommendations to the Cabinet."
Ministerial Committee on the Environment (ENV)
Composition:
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (Chair)
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Health
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for International Development
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of Transport
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
The Secretary of State for Social Security and the Secretary of State for Education and Employment also receive papers. They and other Ministers are invited to attend as necessary.
The Chief Scientific Adviser attends for issues relating to science and technology.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider environmental policies and to co-ordinate those on sustainable development."
Ministerial Committee on Local Government (GL)
Composition:
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (Chair)
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Lord Chancellor
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Health
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for Social Security
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of Transport
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Other Ministers are invited to attend for items in which they have departmental interest.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider issues affecting local government, including the annual allocation of resources."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on London (GL(L))
Composition:
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (Chair)
- Paymaster General, Treasury
- Minister of State, Department for Education and Employment
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
- Minister of State, Department of Health
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Office
- Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Culture, Media and Sport
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Social Security
Terms of Reference:
"To co-ordinate the Government's policies on London, and report as necessary to the Ministerial Committee on Local Government (GL) and the Ministerial Committee on Devolution Policy (DP)."
Ministerial Committee on Home and Social Affairs (HS)
Composition:
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (Chair)
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Lord Chancellor
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Health
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for Social Security
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of Transport
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
The Attorney General, the Lord Advocate and the Captain of the Gentlemen-at-Arms also receive papers. They and others are invited to attend as necessary.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider issues of home and social policy."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on Health Strategy (HS (H))
Composition:
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Chair)
- Secretary of State for Health
- Secretary of State for International Development
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Minister of State, Department of Health
- Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Economic Secretary, Treasury
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Education and Employment
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Scottish Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Northern Ireland Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Welsh Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Social Security
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry
The Chief Medical Officer is in attendance.
Other Ministers are invited to attend for items in which they have a departmental interest.
Terms of Reference:
"To oversee the development, implementation and monitoring of the Government's health strategy; to co-ordinate the Government's policies on United Kingdom-wide issues affecting health; and to report as necessary to the Ministerial Committee on Home and Social Affairs (HS)."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on Drug Misuse (HS(D))
Composition:
- Minister for the Cabinet Office (Chair)
- Secretary of State for International Development
- Solicitor General
- Financial Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office
- Minister of State, Ministry of Defence
- Minister of State, Department of Health
- Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Education and Employment Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Scottish Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Culture, Media and Sport
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Welsh Office
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions also receives papers and may be invited to attend as appropriate.
Terms of Reference:
"To co-ordinate the Government's national and international policies for tackling drugs misuse, and report as necessary to the Ministerial Committee on Home and Social Affairs (HS)."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on Women's Issues (HS(W))
Composition:
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal) (Chair)
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for International Development
- Minister of State, Scottish Office
- Minister of State, Department of Health
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Economic Secretary, Treasury
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Education and Employment
- Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Welsh Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Social Security
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry
Terms of Reference:
"To review and develop the Government's policy and strategy on issues of special concern to women; to oversee their implementation; and to report as necessary to the Ministerial Committee on Home and Social Affairs (HS)."
Ministerial Committee on The Queen's Speeches and Future Legislation (QFL)
Composition:
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Lord Chancellor
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Attorney General
- Lord Advocate
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
- Captain of the Gentlemen-at-Arms
The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs is invited to attend for discussions of The Queen's Speeches.
Terms of Reference:
"To prepare and submit to the Cabinet drafts of The Queen's Speeches to Parliament and proposals for the Government's legislative programme."
Ministerial Committee on Legislation (LEG)
Composition:
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Chair)
- Lord Chancellor
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Attorney General
- Lord Advocate
- Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office
- Minister of State, Home Office
- Financial Secretary, Treasury
- Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office
- Captain of the Gentlemen-at-Arms
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland also receives papers and is invited to attend as necessary.
Terms of Reference:
"To examine all draft Bills; to consider the parliamentary handling of Government Bills, European Community documents and Private Members' business, and such other related matters as may be necessary; and to keep under review the Government's policy in relation to issues of Parliamentary procedures."
Ministerial Committee on Constitutional Reform Policy (CRP)
Composition:
- Prime Minister (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
- Lord Chancellor
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
Other Ministers may be invited to attend as necessary.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider strategic issues relating to the Government's constitutional reform policies".
Ministerial Sub-Committee on Incorporation of the European Convention of Human Rights (CRP(EC))
Composition:
- Lord Chancellor (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Defence
- Secretary of State for Health
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for Social Security
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Attorney General
- Lord Advocate
Other Ministers are invited to attend for items in which they have a departmental interest. The Minister of State, Cabinet Office receives papers.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider policy and other issues arising from the Government's decision to legislate for the incorporation of ECHR in UK law and to promote and oversee progress of the relevant legislation through Parliament and its subsequent implementation, reporting as necessary to the Ministerial Committee on Constitutional Reform Policy."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on Freedom of Information (CRP(FOI))
Composition:
- Lord Chancellor (Chair)
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Defence
- Secretary of State for Health
- Paliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for International Development
- Secretary of State for Social Security
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Attorney General
- Lord Advocate
- Minister of Transport
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Other Ministers are invited to attend for items in which they have a departmental interest.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider policy and other issues arising from the Government's decision to legislate on freedom of information; to promote and oversee progress of the relevant legislation through Parliament and its subsequent implementation; and to report as necessary to the Ministerial Committee on Constitutional Reform Policy."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on House of Lords Reform (CRP(HL))
Composition:
- Lord Chancellor (Chair)
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Captain of the Gentlemen-at-Arms
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Other Ministers are invited to attend as necessary.
Terms of Reference:
"to consider policy and other issues arising from the Government's plans for reform of the House of Lords and to make recommendations to the Ministerial Committee on Constitutional Reform Policy."
Ministerial Committee on Devolution Policy (DP)
Composition:
- Lord Chancellor (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Health
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for Social Security
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Captain of the Gentlemen-at-Arms
- Attorney General
- Lord Advocate
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
Other Ministers are invited for items in which they have departmental interest.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider policy and other issues arising from the Government's policies for devolution to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and the regions of England and to promote and oversee progress of the relevant legislation through Parliament and its subsequent implementation."
Joint Consultative Committee with the Liberal Democratic Party (JCC)
Composition:
The Committee will be chaired by the Prime Minister. Other Ministers and Liberal Democratic spokesmen will be invited to attend as necessary.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider policy issues of joint interest to the Government and the Liberal Democratic Party."
Ministerial Committee on Defence and Overseas Policy (DOP)
Composition:
- Prime Minister (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
- Secretary of State for Defence
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
The Chief of the Defence Staff attends as required, as do the Chiefs of Staff when necessary. Others are invited to attend as necessary.
Terms of Reference:
"To keep under review the Government's defence and overseas policy."
Ministerial Sub-Committee on European Issues ((E)DOP)
Composition:
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Defence
- Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Secretary of State for International Development
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Attorney General
- Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office
- Minister for Trade and Competitiveness in Europe
The Minister of State, Cabinet Office receives papers.
Other Ministers are invited to attend as the nature of the business requires.
The United Kingdom's Permanent Representative to the European Union is also in attendance.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider questions relating to the United Kingdom's membership of the European Union and to report as necessary to the Ministerial Committee on Defence and Overseas Policy (DOP)."
Ministerial Committee on Northern Ireland (IN)
Composition:
- Prime Minister (Chair)
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Defence
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
Terms of Reference:
"To oversee the Government's policy on Northern Ireland issues and relations with the Republic of Ireland on these matters."
Ministerial Committee on the Intelligence Services (CSI)
Composition:
- Prime Minister (Chair)
- Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Chancellor of the Exchequer
- Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Defence
Terms of Reference:
"To keep under review policy on the security and intelligence services."
Ministerial Group on Food Safety (MISC 1)
Composition:
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Chair)
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- Minister for the Cabinet Office
- Secretary of State for Scotland
- Secretary of State for Health
- Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
- Secretary of State for Wales
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry
The Parliamentary Secretary, Treasury and Chief Whip will also receive papers and may attend as necessary.
Terms of Reference:
"To co-ordinate Departmental consideration of issues arising from the establishment of a Food Standards Agency and other aspects of food safety, and to make recommendations to the Ministerial Committee on Home and Social Affairs."
Ministerial Group on Crime Reduction and Youth Justice (MISC 2)
Composition:
- Secretary of State for the Home Department (Chair)
- Leader of the House of Lords and Minister for Women (appointed as Lord Privy Seal)
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Solicitor General
- Minister of State, Home Office
- Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Education and Employment
- Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Scottish Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Culture, Media and Sport
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Welsh Office
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland also receives papers, and may attend or be represented as necessary.
Terms of Reference:
"To oversee the Government's programme to reduce crime and the reform of youth justice and to make recommendations to the Ministerial Committee on Home and Social Affairs."
Ministerial Group on Utility Regulation (MISC 3)
Composition:
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Chair)
- Minister of Transport
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Paymaster General, Treasury
- Minister of State, Scottish Office
- Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office
- Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry
- Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office
Other Ministers are invited to attend for items in which they have a departmental interest.
Terms of Reference:
"To oversee an inter-departmental review of regulation of the utility industries, to consider issues arising from the review and to report to the Ministerial Committee on Economic Affairs (EA)."
Ministerial Group on the Millennium Date Change (MISC 4)
Composition:
- President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Chair)
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Paymaster General, Treasury
- Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office
- Minister of State, Home Office
- Minister of State, Scottish Office
- Minister of State, Ministry of Defence
- Minister of State, Department of Health
- Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Education and Employment
- Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Welsh Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Social Security
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry
Other Ministers are invited to attend for items in which they have a departmental interest.
The Chairman of Action 2000 and the Prime Minister's Adviser on the Year 2000 problem are invited to attend.
Terms of Reference:
"To drive action in the public and private sector, including the national infrastructure, to prevent damage from the failure of electronic systems related to the Year 2000 date change."
Ministerial Group on the Restructuring of the European Aerospace and Defence Industry (MISC 5)
Composition:
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (Chair)
- Secretary of State for Defence
- Paymaster General
- Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office
- Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry
Terms of Reference:
"To develop Government policy and co-ordinate related activity in promoting the restructuring of the European aerospace and defence industry."
Ministerial Group on Biotechnology and Genetic Modification (MISC 6)
Composition:
- Minister for the Cabinet Office (Chair)
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Financial Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office
- Minister of State, Home Office
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
- Minister of State, Department of Health
- Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
- Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry
- Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry
The Chief Scientific Adviser also attends.
Terms of Reference:
"To consider issues relating to biotechnology, in particular those arising from genetic modification."
Ministerial Group on Better Government (MISC 7)
Composition:
- Minister for the Cabinet Office (Chair)
- Secretary of State for the Home Department
- Secretary of State for Education and Employment
- Secretary of State for Health
- Secretary of State for Social Security
- Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
- Chief Secretary, Treasury
- Minister of State, Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
- Minister of State, Lord Chancellor's Department
- Minister of State, Scottish Office
- Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office
- Minister of State, Cabinet Office
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Culture, Media and Sport
- Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Welsh Office
Terms of Reference:
"To develop the Government's programme for improving the quality, coherence and responsiveness of public services and to oversee its implementation."
Sterling and Foreign Exchange Markets
asked Her Majesty's Government:Taking into account the powers of the European Central Bank in relation to a single European currency, what measures they are taking to strengthen sterling, especially after having given greater autonomy to the Bank of England. [HL3454]
While the UK remains outside EMU, sterling will continue to float freely on the foreign exchange markets. The Government do not have a target for sterling, but a stable and competitive exchange rate is sought over the medium term, consistent with the objective of price stability. The only way to ensure long-term exchange rate stability is through the pursuit of sound macroeconomic policies aimed at achieving sustained growth and low inflation. The independence of the Bank of England in setting interest rates to achieve the Government's inflation target plays an integral part in achieving these objectives.
Budget Surplus/Deficit
asked Her Majesty's Government:What are the Treasury's estimates of the impact of the lower economic growth rates recently predicted by the Chancellor of the Exchquer on projections for the current budget surplus or deficit and the Public Sector Borrowing Requirement for 1999–2000; what assumptions on changes in unemployment levels are included; and what increase in the basic rate of income tax would raise sufficient revenue to restore the current budget surplus for 1999–2000 to the level set out in the Chancellor's July 1998 Statement or restore the Public Sector Borrowing Requirement to the level set out in the Financial Statement and Budget Report published in March 1998. [HL3408]
A new forecast of the public finances will be published in the Pre-Budget Report on 3 November.
Government Systems: Millennium Compliance
asked Her Majesty's Government:What progress has been made in ensuring millennium compliance in central government' s systems and equipment. [HL3552]
The results of the last quarterly review, which the Government announced on 9 September, showed that good progress is being made by departments and agencies in tackling the year 2000 problem. Work on correcting priority, business-critical, systems is particularly well advanced. Over half of the returns reported that 50 per cent. or more of the correction work has been completed and in a fifth of cases this figure was as high as 90 per cent. Departments and agencies are also seeking assurances from suppliers that they will be able to continue to provide key products and services into the next century.The individual returns from the last quarterly review are available in the Libraries of both Houses together with the text of the announcement made by the President of the Council, the right honourable Margaret Beckett MP, on 9 September.
Fifty Pound Banknote
asked Her Majesty's Government:On what measure they have calculated that the £50 note introduced in March 1981 would have to be adjusted to £190 to have the equivalent purchasing power today, as indicated in the Written Answer by the Lord McIntosh of Haringey on 3 September (
WA 35); and what adjustment would be needed if the Retail Prices Index were used to measure the change in purchasing power over the same period. [HL3309]
The change in Retail Prices Index between March 1981, when the £50 note was introduced, and June 1998, the latest date for which data were then available, was used as the basis for calculating the change in the purchasing power of the banknote over that period. On this basis the adjustment necessary for the £50 note to have the equivalent purchasing power is £113 and not £190 as quoted in my earlier answer. I very much regret that the statisticians miscalculated this figure.