Response from Mike Penning MP (Session
2008-09, P 56)
As part of the enquiry into Written Parliamentary
Questions—and as one who is proud of the existing system—I
wanted to outline my thoughts on the subject.
I do believe, through my own experience, that
if Government Departments were prepared to answer submitted questions
more fully then the amount of supplementaries and concurrent PQs
would be reduced.
Written Parliamentary Questions are integral
to our democracy—but they are contigent upon the executive
answering in a helpful manner. Often Members know the answer to
tabled questions in advance, and are seeking official confirmation
of fact.
I hope these comments are helpful.
May 2009
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