Memorandum submitted by HM Treasury (CAP
40)
Letter from the Chairman of the Committee
to the Permanent Secretary, HM Treasury
COMMITTEE INQUIRY INTO THE UK GOVERNMENT'S
"VISION FOR THE CAP"
The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
took evidence from the Tenant Farmers' Association on Wednesday
18 October in connection with this inquiry. We were concerned
and disappointed to be told by the TFA that "our intelligence
informs us that the Treasury is not minded to take your inquiry
particularly seriously". I attach a copy of the relevant
part of the transcript.
We understand that the remark in question was
made in a private context, but if the TFA evidence is true then
it gives a worrying indication of the attitude of Treasury officials
to the serious work we are doing in our inquiry and to Parliament
more generally. I would be grateful if you could investigate this
matter and tell us what the basis of the TFA allegation may have
been.
If it transpires that there is a foundation
to the TFA allegation, we would wish to know your view of the
matter and what internal action you will take. In such a case
the Committee might also wish in due course to hear from the official
or officials who made such comments.
Rt Hon Michael Jack MP
Chairman
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
23 October 2006
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