Written Answers to Questions
Tuesday 16 November 2010
Energy and Climate Change
Departmental Press
Matthew Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change to which local newspapers his Department had a subscription between October 2008 and May 2010; on what date each such subscription started; and what the cost to the public purse was of such subscriptions. [24425]
Gregory Barker: The Department of Energy and Climate Change has a subscription for two copies of the Aberdeen Press and Journal, for its Aberdeen Office. The subscription started when the Department was created in October 2008. The cost of the subscription until May 2010 was £357.60.
Scotland
Broadband: Scotland
Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his Department has made an assessment of the economic value of carrying out a comprehensive mapping of Scotland's fibre infrastructure. [24184]
Michael Moore: The Digital Economy Act 2010, which came into force in June of this year, gives Ofcom a new duty to report to the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) every three years on the UK's communications infrastructure. Ofcom has consulted on the scope of the first report which is due for publication in 2011. In addition, BIS is currently consulting on changes to the EU framework directive (Directive 2002/21/EC), specifically article 12(4) which allows for national authorities, including national regulatory authorities, to request information from companies to provide a detailed picture of the infrastructure in a member state.
Broadcasting: Scotland
Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his Department has undertaken an impact assessment in respect of the economic effects on the Scottish broadcasting sector of the Government's decision not to accept the recommendation by Ofcom that Scottish Television should be classified as a qualified independent producer. [24221]
Michael Moore:
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport undertook an impact assessment as part of the public consultation on the potential reclassification of production companies owned by Channel 3 licence
holders. The decision not to reclassify Scottish Television as an independent producer for BBC commissions was taken following a consultation undertaken by the previous Administration. The Government's approach will ensure a fair chance for small and independent production companies in Scotland.
Ann McKechin: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what consultation his Department has with (a) Scottish Television, (b) Scottish Enterprise, (c) trade unions in Scotland and (d) the broadcasting industry in Scotland prior to the Government's decision not to accept the recommendation by Ofcom that Scottish Television should be classified as a qualified independent producer. [24222]
Michael Moore: The previous Administration held a public consultation from 4 November 2009 to 2 February 2010 on the potential reclassification of production companies owned by Channel 3 licence holders. Responses were received from the following organisations:
Bees Nees
Caledonia TV
Channel 4
Comedy Unit
Eyeline Media
Finestripe Productions
ITV
IWC Media
La Belle Allee Productions Ltd
Lion Television
Mac TV
Mallinson Sadler Productions
Matchlight Limited
Michael Darlow
Mike Bolland
Ofcom
PACT
Scottish Screen
Scottish Government
Skyline Productions Ltd
STV
Tattiemoon
Tern TV
True TV and Film Ltd
Turmeric Media
UKTV
Ulan Productions
UTV
Visible Ink Television.
Citizens Advice Scotland
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met representatives of Citizens Advice Scotland; and what matters were discussed at that meeting. [24138]
Michael Moore: I last met representatives from Citizens Advice Scotland on 5 July. Among the topics discussed were forthcoming business and funding issues for the organisation.
Glasgow School of Art
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he (a) last visited and (b) next plans to visit (i) the Glasgow School of Art and (ii) the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. [24134]
Michael Moore: In September I had a meeting with Universities Scotland, the representative body for Scotland's 20 higher education institutions. I have not yet had the opportunity to visit the Glasgow School of Art or the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.
Kenneth Calman
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met Sir Kenneth Calman; and what was discussed at that meeting. [24142]
Michael Moore: I spoke with Sir Kenneth Calman on 9 June 2010. We discussed the final report of the Commission on Scottish Devolution and the Government's coalition commitment to implement the Commission's recommendations. I will be meeting with Sir Kenneth again in the near future.
Political Adviser
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what criteria he set for candidates for appointment as his political adviser; what consideration he gave to advertising this post; and what the (a) experience, (b) salary and (c) length of contract of such appointments are. [24144]
Michael Moore: The only appointment I have made as Secretary of State for Scotland has been to appoint a special adviser; no political adviser has been appointed. The appointment of a special adviser is a personal appointment, and, therefore, such posts are not generally advertised. Special advisers are appointed, and remunerated, in accordance with guidance issued by the Cabinet Office.
Political Appointments
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many (a) political appointments and (b) other personal appointments he has made since his appointment; and what estimate he has made of the cost to the public purse of such appointments. [24143]
Michael Moore: The only appointment I have made since my own appointment as Secretary of State for Scotland has been to appoint a special adviser. Special advisers are appointed, and remunerated, in accordance with guidance issued by the Cabinet Office.
Public Expenditure: Scotland
Graeme Morrice: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent discussions he has had with ministerial colleagues on the likely effect on the West Lothian local authority area of the implementation of proposals in the comprehensive spending review. [23903]
Michael Moore: I have had many discussions with ministerial colleagues on a range of issues, including the effects of the spending review in Scotland. The spending review sets out how the Government will carry out Britain's unavoidable plan to reduce the largest deficit in peacetime history. Alongside growth, the Government have prioritised fairness, including reforming the welfare system to put it on a sustainable long-term footing, while providing sustained routes out of poverty for the poorest. Scotland and its regions will stand to benefit from these priorities.
Scotland Bill
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when his Department expects to publish the Scotland Bill. [24141]
Michael Moore: The Queen's Speech included a commitment to bring forward legislation in this first Session of Parliament to implement the recommendations of the Commission on Scottish Devolution. The Scotland Bill will be published in due course.
Universities: Visits
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he (a) last visited and (b) next plans to visit (i) Edinburgh Napier university, (ii) Queen Margaret university, (iii) the University of Abertay, (iv) Glasgow Caledonian university, (v) the university of the West of Scotland, (vi) Robert Gordon university, (vii) the university of Stirling, (viii) the University of Dundee, (ix) Heriot-Watt university, (x) the university of Strathclyde, (xi) the university of Aberdeen, (xii) the university of Glasgow, (xiii) the university of St Andrews, (xiv) Edinburgh university and (xv) Kilmarnock college. [24135]
Michael Moore: In recent weeks, I have visited the university of Abertay and the university of Glasgow, and I plan to visit the university of Edinburgh early in 2011. I hope to visit as many of Scotland's universities and colleges as possible in the coming months. In September I met Universities Scotland, the representative body for higher education institutions in Scotland, and I plan to meet representatives from Scotland's colleges soon.
Visits Abroad: Scotland
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he (a) last visited and (b) next plans to visit Malawi. [24133]
Michael Moore: I have (a) not visited Malawi and (b) have no current plans to visit Malawi.
West Lothian Question
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent discussions he has had with the Deputy Prime Minister on the Commission to consider the West Lothian question; and if he will make a statement. [24131]
Michael Moore:
I have continuing discussions on a range of matters with the Deputy Prime Minister. The Government are committed to establishing a commission
to consider the West Lothian question as set out in the 'programme for government' and, as the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, my hon. Friend the Member for Forest of Dean (Mr Harper) stated on 26 October 2010, Official Report, column 252W:
"we aim to announce our plans for a commission by the end of the year."
I will discuss with ministerial colleagues as plans are developed.
Wales
Public Sector: Employment
Chris Ruane: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many job losses she expects there to be in the public sector in each constituency in Wales in the next five years. [24228]
Mr David Jones: The Office for Budget Responsibility has made employment predictions for the UK based on macro-economic data and no figures are available at sub-national level.
The Secretary of State and I remain committed to preserving public sector jobs in Wales wherever possible while ensuring that the economy is rebalanced with a strong and vibrant private sector.
International Development
Developing Countries: Maternity Services
Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what the evidential basis was for his statement at the consultation meeting on his Department's business plan on reproductive, maternal and newborn health that (a) 70,000 women a year die from unsafe abortions and (b) where such abortions do not result in death, they can cause lifelong suffering; and if he will make a statement. [23614]
Mr Andrew Mitchell: The evidential basis for the Secretary of State's statement at the consultation meeting is the latest updated statistics published by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on unsafe abortion (WHO and HRP 2010. "Unsafe Abortion in 2008: Global and Regional Levels and Trends"). This is based in part on data from the Guttmacher Institute (Singh S et al. "Abortion Worldwide: A decade of uneven progress" published in 2009). Globally in 2008, an estimated 22 million unsafe abortions took place. Nearly all of these were in developing countries, and resulted in about 70,000 deaths of women and girls.
Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what research his Department has (a) commissioned and (b) evaluated on the relationship between the level of access to abortion and the number of deaths of (i) mothers in pregnancy or birth and (ii) newborn children; what methodology was used in such research; and if he will make a statement. [23622]
Mr Andrew Mitchell:
The Department for International Development (DFID) has not directly commissioned research on the relationship between the level of access to safe, legal abortion and the number of deaths of
(i) mothers and (ii) newborn children. We use data compiled by a range of organisations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Guttmacher Institute.
However, DFID is commissioning research on meeting unmet need for family planning. The successful consortium will be announced in early 2011. The final details of the work programme will be developed during the first year of the programme.
Independent Commission for Aid Impact: Expenditure
Anas Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what role the Chief Commissioner of the Independent Commission for Aid Impact will play in (a) assessing the effectiveness of spending in meeting project objectives and (b) selection of projects. [24607]
Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Chief Commissioner will lead the Independent Commission for Aid Impact (ICAI) in assessing the impact and effectiveness of UK aid spending. This will include assessments of the effectiveness of spending in meeting project objectives. The ICAI will determine which projects and programmes will be evaluated, reviewed and investigated and will consult the International Development Committee in due course.
Strategic Defence and Security Review
Anas Sarwar: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development which countries were assessed as being conflict-affected and fragile for the purpose of the information provided in the strategic defence and security review. [24608]
Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Government's assessment of conflict affected and fragile countries used in the development of the strategic defence and security review draws from the all-source Countries at Risk of Instability report produced by the Cabinet Office and Departments. It is not HMG policy to make the details of the Countries at Risk of Instability report public.
Sudan: Human Rights
Nicola Blackwood: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the African Union on the humanitarian situation in southern Sudan. [23244]
Mr Andrew Mitchell: I am in regular contact with the Chairman of the African Union (AU) Commission, Jean Ping, including on the AU's role in Sudan. I was unable to meet with the AU's chief mediator on Sudan, President Mbeki, on my recent visit, since he was tied up with the talks on the referenda and completion of the comprehensive peace agreement.
However, I spoke to a range of people involved in the AU high level process, including Vice President Taha and President Kiir, UNSG Menkerios and the US ambassador. I pressed the importance of a peaceful and credible process, to minimise the risk of conflict and humanitarian problems, as well as contingency planning for any humanitarian problems. I also spoke to the Joint AU/UN Special Representative in Darfur, Ibrahim Gambari, about links between conflict and humanitarian issues in Darfur and Southern Sudan.
Nicola Blackwood: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the UN on the humanitarian situation in southern Sudan. [23245]
Mr Andrew Mitchell: During my recent visit to Sudan, I had extensive discussions on this issue with UN representatives, including Baroness Amos, UN Under-Secretary-General and Emergency Relief Co-ordinator; Alan Le Roy, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations; Haile Menkerios, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sudan; Georg Charpentier the Humanitarian Co-ordinator in Sudan; and with the heads of in-country teams for the Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the World Food Programme (WFP).
Nicola Blackwood: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent discussions he has had with representatives of the EU on the humanitarian situation in southern Sudan. [23246]
Mr Andrew Mitchell: During my recent visit to Sudan, I had discussions on the humanitarian situation in Sudan with the EU ambassador and senior representatives of the EU delegation in Sudan. We discussed work to maximise the chances of a peaceful and credible referendum, on the possible secession of Southern Sudan, in January 2011. But we also discussed preparations for any outbreaks of violence and humanitarian need. The Department for International Development (DFID) and the humanitarian aid arm of the European Commission (ECHO) work closely together in Sudan on humanitarian issues across the country.
Sudan: International Assistance
Nicola Blackwood: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what his Department's long-term strategy is to support Southern Sudan's progress towards the millennium development goals. [23235]
Mr Andrew Mitchell: The Department for International Development (DFID) is undertaking a review of all the UK's bilateral aid programmes including in Sudan, and its southern region. Given uncertainty about the outcome of the referendum in January, and the need to retain the ability to respond to any humanitarian crisis that might occur in the early part of 2011, we aim to have a long-term strategy in place by April 2011.
Zimbabwe: Agriculture
Neil Parish: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent representations his Department has made to the Government of Zimbabwe on attacks on farmers and agricultural workers. [23906]
Mr Bellingham: I have been asked to reply.
The farm invasions by Zimbabwe African National Union Patriotic Front (ZANU (PF)) supporters contravene the Southern African Development Community (SADC) ruling of November 2008 as well as the terms of the
Global Political Agreement (GPA). Farm workers suffer equally with farm owners, often losing their accommodation as well as their livelihood.
Our embassy in Harare monitors the situation closely and continues to make clear our concerns to the Government of Zimbabwe. The consul met with British farmers in July to further understand their concerns and see what assistance we might be able to offer. Our ambassador has raised the issue directly with the Minister for Justice and Legal Affairs. Violent invasions demonstrate a lack of respect for the rule of law. We continue to urge the police and judicial authorities in Zimbabwe to take action against them.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
British Nationals Abroad: Prisoners
Helen Goodman: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how many UK nationals are in prison in (a) Jamaica, (b) Nigeria, (c) the Irish Republic, (d) Poland, (e) Vietnam, (f) Pakistan, (g) Somalia, (h) Romania, (i) China, (j) Lithuania, (k) another EU Member State and (l) another foreign country. [23314]
Mr Jeremy Browne: On 30 September 2010, there were (a) 39 British nationals in prison in Jamaica, (b) two in Nigeria, (c) 101 in the Irish Republic, (d) 0 in Poland, (e) two in Vietnam, (f) 15 in Pakistan, (g) 0 in Somalia, (h) four in Romania, (i) 22 in China (j) one in Lithuania, (k) 750 in other EU member states, and (1) 1,657 in other foreign countries.
Iran: Human Rights
Mrs Ellman: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make representations at UN level to establish a monitoring mechanism to report on human rights in Iran to the (a) General Assembly and (b) Human Rights Council. [24541]
Mr Jeremy Browne: We remain deeply concerned by the appalling human rights situation in Iran, which has deteriorated markedly since the disputed June 2009 elections. The UK has worked closely with the EU and with international partners to raise concerns and encourage Iran to fulfil its domestic and international obligations including through tough resolutions at the UN General Assembly. We are keen that the UN should respond to and monitor all serious human rights situations and are in regular dialogue with all UN members to encourage support for this, both in the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council.
Israel: Borders
Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has received on the number of roadblocks in the west bank which have been removed by the Government of Israel; and if he will make a statement. [21938]
Alistair Burt: According to the UN's most recent annual report (published in June 2010) on "West Bank Movement and Access" the number of roadblocks in the west bank was 505. This was in comparison to 626 the previous year.
While we welcome the improvements around the west bank, access into and within the west bank remains seriously restricted, and further easing is essential to help the Palestinian economy to grow.
Japan: Whales
Mr Sanders: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with his Japanese counterpart on whaling; and if he will make a statement. [24065]
Mr Jeremy Browne: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs raised whaling during his visit to Japan in July and I raised the issue during my visit to Japan in September. The Japanese Government are in no doubt of the strength of feeling in this country about this issue, and that the UK considers Japan's lethal whaling for "scientific" research wholly unnecessary.
Middle East: Armed Conflict
Bill Esterson: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to achieve a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. [24014]
Alistair Burt [holding answer 15 November 2010]: This conflict matters to British national security: we will continue to take every opportunity to promote peace, working with all parties, the US and our EU and UN partners.
Our goal is a secure and universally recognised Israel living alongside a sovereign, viable and contiguous Palestinian state, based on the borders of 1967, with Jerusalem the future capital of both states, and a fair settlement for refugees.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs discussed these issues during his recent visit to the region and underlined the need for a renewal of Israel's moratorium on settlement construction. He is also in regular contact with Secretary Clinton and Senator Mitchell on progress. In addition we will continue our work supporting those building the institutions of a future Palestinian state, and continue to work with partners to secure greater change on the ground in Gaza.
Middle East: Peace Negotiations
Simon Danczuk: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with (a) the US Secretary of State, (b) the French Foreign Minister, (c) the Egyptian Foreign Minister, (d) the Jordanian Foreign Minister and (e) the Quartet's middle east peace envoy on the middle east peace process. [23035]
Alistair Burt: We are in regular contact with the US and the other key partners cited on the middle east peace process (MEPP) at both ministerial and official level.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs is holding further discussions with Secretary Clinton this week. He also
discussed MEPP with former French Foreign Minister Kouchner on 14 October, with Jordanian Foreign Minister Judeh on 23 October and with right hon. Tony Blair on 30 October.
Philippines: Crimes of Violence
Mr Amess: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent reports he has received of assaults on nurses in the Philippines; whether he has had recent discussions with the Government of the Philippines on that matter; and if he will make a statement. [23623]
Mr Jeremy Browne: We have received only one recent report of an attack on a nurse in the Philippines: the case of the rape of a nurse on 25 September in South Upi town in Maguindanao in the southern Philippines. We have not raised the specific issue of attacks on nurses with the Philippines authorities.
Sudan: Referendums
Mr Iain Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of Sudan on eligibility to vote in the referendum planned for January 2011. [24507]
Mr Bellingham: The UK has consistently underlined to the Governments of Sudan and Southern Sudan, and the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission, the need to make urgent progress towards the Southern Sudan referendum. This has included the need for clear and fair eligibility criteria with accessible language which can be made public. We welcome the start of registration on 15 November.
Turkey: British Council
Mr Fabian Hamilton: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will ensure that the level of funding allocated by the British Council to projects in Turkey is maintained. [23641]
Mr Jeremy Browne: The British Council works independently of Her Majesty's Government. It is reviewing the implications of the spending review settlement and has not yet reached a decision on what impact the reduction in grant in aid will have on individual operations.
The British Council is committed to maintaining its global network and Turkey will remain a priority country within that network.
Prime Minister
Chequers
Mr Watson: To ask the Prime Minister (1) on how many occasions he has met (a) the Chairman of Associated Newspapers, (b) the Chairman of Mirror Group Newspapers, (c) the Chairman of Express Newspapers and (d) the Director General of the BBC at Chequers since 12 May 2010; [23752]
(2) how much time he spent with Mr James Murdoch during their meeting at Chequers during the weekend of 6 and 7 November 2010; and which (a) Ministers and (b) civil servants were present; [23753]
(3) what issues he discussed with Mr James Murdoch during the latter's visit to Chequers during the weekend of 6 and 7 November 2010. [23754]
The Prime Minister: I refer the hon. Member to the list of official meetings by Ministers with external organisations which is published on a quarterly basis, in accordance with the ministerial code, and to the list of guests who have received official hospitality at Chequers which is published on an annual basis. Information for 2010-2011 will be published in the usual way at the end of the financial year.
Departmental Internet
Luciana Berger: To ask the Prime Minister by (1) what mechanisms he is undertaking his review of the system for e-petitions to No. 10 Downing street; [24078]
(2) what representations he has received from (a) individual members of the public and (b) organisations on his review of the system for e-petitions to No. 10 Downing street; [24079]
(3) whether he plans to take steps to encourage members of the public and organisations to participate in his review of the system for e-petitions to No. 10 Downing street. [24080]
The Prime Minister: The future of e-petitions is being reviewed by Martha Lane Fox as part of her review of all Government digital communications and engagement. The conclusions of her review will be announced shortly.
Members: Allowances
Bob Russell: To ask the Prime Minister pursuant to his answer of 26 October 2010, Official Report, column 495W, on Members: allowances, what steps he has taken to press for improvements in the service provided by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority; and if he will make a statement. [24517]
The Prime Minister: I refer the hon. Member to my answer of 14 July 2010, Official Report, column 946.
Justice
Coroner Service: Departmental Co-ordination
Robert Flello: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) on what occasions he has met (a) Ministers and (b) officials in the Department for Communities and Local Government to discuss the coroner service since his appointment; [24283]
(2) whether he has had discussions with the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on the likely effects on service provision by the coroner service of the outcomes of the comprehensive spending review. [24284]
Mr Djanogly: The Secretary of State for Justice has not met with the Department for Communities and Local Government to discuss the coroner service since his appointment.
However, the Secretary of State has corresponded with the Communities Secretary on the likely effects of the outcomes of the spending review 2010 on the reform of the coroner service, and separately on the funding of certain inquests.
Data Protection
Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what steps his Department has taken to (a) promote and (b) enforce the Information Commissioner's code of conduct in relation to data protection in the last 24 months. [23814]
Mr Djanogly: I understand the question refers to the personal information online code of practice issued by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) in July 2010.
Discussions took place between the MoJ and the ICO about the code of practice during the ICO's public consultation, and the Government support the code's aims. However the ICO is independent of Government in the way it discharges its statutory responsibilities in respect of the Data Protection Act, Freedom of Information Act, Environmental Information Regulations and Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations and so the promotion and enforcement of the code are matters for the ICO.
Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Information Commissioner's code of conduct in relation to data protection. [23815]
Mr Djanogly: I understand the question refers to the personal information online code of practice issued by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) in July 2010.
Discussions took place between the MoJ and the ICO about the code of practice during the ICO's public consultation, and the Government support the code's aims. However, the ICO is independent of Government in the way it discharges its statutory responsibilities in respect of the Data Protection Act, Freedom of Information Act, Environmental Information Regulations and Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations. It would therefore not be appropriate for the Government to assess the effectiveness of this code of practice.
Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if he will make an assessment of the Information Commissioner's co-ordination with his international counterparts on Google's harvesting of data as part of its Street View project; and if he will make a statement. [23813]
Mr Djanogly: The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) discharges its statutory responsibilities in respect of the Data Protection Act, Freedom of Information Act, Environmental Information Regulations and Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations independently of Government. It would not be appropriate for the Government to comment on the ICO's co-ordination with its international counterparts in individual cases.
Homicide: Death Certificates
Andrea Leadsom: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice (1) for what reasons (a) an inquest into a murder and (b) the issue of a death certificate does not take place until after the completion of criminal proceedings; [24126]
(2) if he will review the effects on the family of a murdered person of the (a) holding of inquests and (b) issue of death certificates taking place only after the conclusion of any criminal proceedings. [24127]
Mr Djanogly: Section 16 of the Coroners Act 1988 provides that the coroner shall adjourn an inquest, in the absence of any reason to the contrary, if a criminal charge has been brought in connection with the death. Section 16 also provides that the coroner should only resume an inquest after the completion of criminal proceedings if there is sufficient cause. This is because a criminal trial will often address the same issues as an inquest, namely who the deceased was and how, when and where he or she came by their death. Bereaved families are therefore spared the distress of attending two separate judicial proceedings.
Section 16 states further that where a coroner has adjourned an inquest, he or she shall send a certificate to the registrar of deaths. This certificate should state, so far as has been ascertained, the particulars required for registration of the death under the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1953. Therefore criminal proceedings should not delay the issuing of the death certificate for registration purposes.
Legal Services Commission: Procurement
Rosie Cooper: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what guidance was (a) sought by the Legal Services Commission (LSC) from the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) and (b) provided by the OGC to the LSC in respect of the LSC's tendering activities in 2010. [24318]
Mr Djanogly: Decisions made under the tender process for the award of legal aid contracts are a matter for the LSC, which is responsible for administering the legal aid scheme.
I understand that in formulating its plans, specifications and criteria during 2008-09 for the 2010 tenders, the LSC did not seek formal guidance from OGC. Nevertheless, the tender process was designed using the guidance available from OGC and at each stage of the process detailed advice was sought from specialist lawyers and counsel regarding the nature of the service to be procured and any regulations pertaining to them to ensure that the process, criteria and supporting documentation were all compliant with relevant UK and EU procurement legislation.
The e-tendering system used by the LSC in the tenders was itself procured from an OGC framework, and was judged to be compliant in its operations with OGC and legislative requirements.
Finally, the staff responsible for the exercise have had extensive experience of commissioning services, including the Executive Director for Commissioning, who was Chief Executive of OGC buying solutions before joining the LSC.
Magistrates Courts
Mr Gale: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice if he will bring forward proposals to increase the number of cases tried before the magistrates courts and to reduce the number of minor offences heard by the Crown courts. [24084]
Mr Blunt: It is in the interests of efficiency that cases should be dealt with in magistrates courts unless the higher sentencing powers of the Crown court are required, and the Government are considering how best to achieve that result. Much time and effort is wasted in the many cases that reach the Crown court and subsequently end in a plea of guilty; this is a particular cause for concern, and we would like to encourage defendants in these cases to plead guilty at the magistrates court stage. Equally, the Government have made it clear that they will protect defendants' rights to jury trial.
Magistrates Courts: Closures
Mr Gale: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what assessment he has made of the effects of the closures of magistrates courts on the number of minor offences that can be heard in those courts. [24085]
Mr Djanogly: Closures of magistrates courts are not expected to affect the number of minor offences that can be heard in those courts.
Utilisation rates, the number of hours the time a courtroom is used, against the hours that a courtroom is available for use, averaged 64% across the magistrates courts in 2009-10. If all the proposed closures went ahead and workload transferred to surrounding courts, it is estimated that it would result in a national utilisation rate in the magistrates courts of around 80%.
This essentially should mean that a similar amount and type of work as is heard currently will be heard at a fewer number of courts, not that the number of minor offences that can be heard will rise or fall.
Non-molestation Orders
Mrs Grant: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answer of 20 July 2010, Official Report, column 235W, on non-molestation orders, when he expects his Department's programme of work accurately to record convictions of those who breach their injunctions to begin. [24537]
Mr Blunt: Pursuant to the answer of 20 July 2010, work undertaken by the Ministry of Justice resolved a previous recording issue of offences resulting from a breach of a previously imposed court order. This enabled the inclusion of these data for the first time in the National Statistics publication "Criminal Statistics, England and Wales 2009" on 21 October 2010.
The number of defendants found guilty of breaching a non-molestation order at all courts in England and Wales 2009 was 2,277.
Sentencing
Philip Davies:
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answer of 4 November 2010, Official Report, columns 888-90W, on sentencing, of
what offences categories those who did not receive an immediate custodial sentence with (a) 16 to 25, (b) 26 to 50, (c) 51 to 75, (d) 76 to 100 and (e) 101 or more previous convictions or cautions had been convicted. [23825]
Mr Blunt: Tables 1 to 5 show figures for sentences given for indictable offences to offenders with 16 or more previous convictions or cautions, who did not receive an immediate custodial sentence, by category of offence. These figures are derived from table 6.2 of "Sentencing Statistics: England and Wales 2009" which was published on 21 October 2010.
| Table 1: Number of offenders with 16 to 25 previous convictions or cautions who did not receive an immediate custodial sentence for an indictable offence by offence category, 2007-09 | |||
| England and Wales | |||
| Number of offenders | |||
| 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | |
| Table 2: Number of offenders with 26 to 50 previous convictions or cautions who did not receive an immediate custodial sentence for an indictable offence by offence category, 2007-09 | |||
| England and Wales | |||
| Number of offenders | |||
| 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | |
| Table 4: Number of offenders with 76 to 100 previous convictions or cautions who did not receive an immediate custodial sentence for an indictable offence by offence category, 2007-09 | |||
| England and Wales | |||
| Number of offenders | |||
| 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | |
| Table 5: Number of offenders with 101 or more previous convictions or cautions who did not receive an immediate custodial sentence for an indictable offence by offence category, 2007-09 | |||
| England and Wales | |||
| Number of offenders | |||
| 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | |
The figures have been drawn from the police's administrative IT system, the police national computer, which, as with any large scale recording system, is subject to possible errors with data entry and processing. The figures are provisional and subject to change as more information is recorded by the police.
Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007: Debt Collection
Gloria De Piero: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answer of 21 October 2010, Official Report, column 880W, on the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007: debt collection, when he expects the public consultation on protection against aggressive bailiffs to commence. [24013]
Mr Djanogly: The Ministry of Justice Business Plan 2011-15, published on 8 November 2010, states we will develop options for public consultation on protection against aggressive bailiffs and to encourage more flexibility in bailiff collections by the end of December 2010.
I expect the public consultation on protection against aggressive bailiffs to commence once we have fully developed and confirmed the options.
Young Offenders Institutions: Legal Opinion
Mrs Grant: To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what proportion of young offender institutions employ a legal services officer. [24557]
Mr Blunt: As of 15 October 2010, of the 56 establishments that hold young offenders and/or young people under 18 years of age, 40 had a legal services officer (or officers), as defined by Prison Service Order 2605 'The Role of the Legal Services (Previously Legal Aid) Officer' and 16 did not. However, of the 16 who did not, six establishments had other staff members able to assist with legal issues when required and in two others appointments were pending.
Culture, Media and Sport
BBC Wales: Television
Jonathan Edwards: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what discussions he has had with the BBC Trust on the launch of BBC One Wales in high definition. [24514]
Mr Vaizey: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, has had no discussions with the BBC Trust on the launch of BBC One Wales in high definition. This is essentially an operational issue for which the BBC is responsible.
BBC: Expenditure
John McDonnell: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what assessment he has made of the likely effects of the reduction in expenditure planned by the BBC over the next four years on its ability to meet its public service obligations; and what mechanisms are in place to ensure that the services consequent on those obligations are maintained. [24712]
Mr Vaizey: The Government have made no assessment. The BBC Trust is responsible for ensuring the BBC meets its public service obligations under the charter and agreement.
Cultural Heritage: Nuclear Power Stations
Paul Maynard: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether his Department has made an assessment of the (a) heritage value of England's built nuclear environment and (b) merits of the listing of such sites. [24073]
John Penrose:
Neither this Department nor its expert advisers, English Heritage, has completed any such overall assessment. Preliminary research work has been undertaken, however, and shared with the Nuclear
Decommissioning Authority (NDA) in order to inform their management of these sensitive sites. A feasibility report on Calder Hall, informed by English Heritage's work, is available on the NDA's website. Various components at Calder Hall were considered for listing in 2006, but not recommended for designation. While the Secretary of State has no plans at present to consider such sites for listing, discussions are under way between the heritage bodies of England, Scotland and Wales to consider a shared approach to this challenging aspect of Britain's technological achievement.
Departmental Lobbying
Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport how much his Department's agencies and non-departmental public bodies spent from the public purse on influencing public policy through (a) employing external (i) public affairs companies, (ii) strategic consultancies and (iii) corporate communications firms, (b) external marketing and (c) other activities in each of the last 10 years. [23757]
John Penrose: The Department does not hold this information.
Accordingly, I have asked the chief executive of our agency and each non-departmental public body to respond to the hon. Member for Harlow directly.
A copy of the responses will be placed in the Library of both Houses.
Digital Broadcasting: Hearing Impairment
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent representations he has received on subtitling for the deaf on digital channels; and if he will make a statement. [23879]
Mr Vaizey: On 11 June 2010, Ofcom published a statement following a review of television access services (subtitling, audio description and signing) in the UK. On 14 July 2010, the Government responded to Ofcom's review. Since responding to Ofcom's review, the Secretary of State has received one letter from a member of the public and two letters from my hon. Friend the Member for Witham (Priti Patel), on behalf of a constituent, on subtitling for the deaf on digital channels.
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) whether his Department (a) is taking and (b) plans to take steps to increase the quality of subtitling for the deaf on digital television channels; [23880]
(2) whether his Department is taking steps to increase the availability of subtitling for the deaf on digital television channels; [23949]
(3) whether his Department plans to ensure that subtitling for the deaf is available on all digital channels in the UK; and if he will make a statement; [23950]
(4) what his most recent assessment is of progress of ITV and Channel 4 towards meeting the requirement to subtitle 90% of programming by the end of 2010. [23951]
Mr Vaizey: Broadcasters already have to meet demanding targets for subtitling. The Communications Act 2003 sets minimum targets for the subtitling of programmes by licensees. For the majority of broadcasters the minimum target for subtitling is 80% to be achieved within a 10-year period, with more demanding targets set for some of the public service broadcasting services. In 2011, 70 separate channels will be required to provide subtitling; accounting for just over 90% of UK audience share in 2009. In addition, any timeshifted or simulcast HD versions of these channels are also obliged to provide subtitling.
In determining which channels are required to provide subtitling, Ofcom considers audience share (channels achieving an average audience share of all UK households over a 12-month period of 0.05% or less are excluded from the requirements) and affordability.
On August 2010 Ofcom published its quarterly report on the provision of access services (subtitling, signing and audio description) by broadcasters for the second quarter of 2010. Ofcom's report shows that the BBC subtitled 99.8% of its programmes, and ITV and Channel 4 both exceeded their subtitling targets of 90%. Indeed, many other broadcasters also exceeded their targets, often substantially.
If a broadcaster fails to meet its obligations over the course of a year, Ofcom requires the deficit to be made up during the following year.
The full report can be found at:
Ofcom has provided guidance on quality of subtitling in annex 2 of the Code on Television Access Services:
It is for broadcasters to take this into account when producing subtitling.
Ofcom also requires television service providers to promote awareness of the availability of their television access services, including subtitling, to potential users of the services by making available accurate and timely information to electronic programme guide (EPG) operators listing their services, and by providing similar information on their website.
Film: Children
Mike Weatherley: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport (1) how many films released on DVD received a classification from the British Board of Film Classification in (a) 2007, (b) 2008 and (c) 2009; [24447]
(2) how many DVDs that were exempt from classification were released in (a) 2007, (b) 2008 and (c) 2009. [24448]
Mr Vaizey: The Department does not hold the information requested.
The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) published the figures for all video works released on DVD, including films which received a classification by them in the years 2007, 2008 and 2009 on their website. These figures are included in the table, for reference:
| Video works classified by BBFC | |
| Number | |
A breakdown of data showing only the number of films released on DVD which received classification by the BBFC is not readily available.
No data are recorded for films released on DVD which are exempt from classification, as this exemption renders them outside of any administrative process.
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport if he will bring forward proposals to require the UK-based producers of DVDs to provide a subtitle option for all content. [24485]
Mr Vaizey: There are no plans to bring forward proposals to require the UK-based producers of DVDs to provide a subtitle option for all content.
Football
Chi Onwurah: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport pursuant to the answer of 21 June 2010, Official Report, column 14W, on football club governance, (1) what progress has been made on exploring better ways to involve supporters in their local clubs; [24415]
(2) what steps he plans to take to encourage the Football Association, Premier League and Football League to work closely together to improve the governance and regulation of the game. [24416]
Hugh Robertson: My current priority is to win the World Cup bid for 2018.
Following the conclusion of this work, I will continue my discussions with the football authorities on the question of governance reform and supporter involvement. As outlined in the DCMS Business Plan, I plan to set out the way forward in these areas in May 2011.
To its credit, the Premier League has already taken steps to introduce a number of new rules for this season, specifically in the areas of club ownership and financial reporting.
We continue to monitor the effect of these changes and what further action might be necessary.
Public Expenditure
Lisa Nandy: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport whether his Department has established processes to monitor any effects of proposed reductions in its expenditure. [21636]
John Penrose: The Department explored the implications of reductions during the spending review process and we will continue to work closely with our public bodies to manage the changes.
On 8 November we published a new Business Plan for 2011-15, which details the priorities and major reforms to reflect the new settlement. Implementation
of the Business Plan will be monitored by the DCMS Board, with updates on progress against actions published on a monthly basis.
Sports: Clubs
Luciana Berger: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what representations he has received on the effects on local communities of co-operative sports clubs. [24076]
Hugh Robertson: According to our records, this Department has received no recent representations on the effects on local communities of co-operative sports clubs.
Television: Disability Aids
Cathy Jamieson: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport what recent discussions he has had with Ofcom on the code on television access services. [23952]
Mr Vaizey: On 11 June 2010, Ofcom published a statement following a review of television access services in the UK. On 14 July 2010, the Government responded to Ofocm's review.
The Government's response, as well as more information on this review, is available on the Department for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport's website, and can be found using the link:
The Secretary of State has had no recent discussions with Ofcom on the code on television access services since responding to Ofcom's review.
Communities and Local Government
Allotments
Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what his policy is on restrictions on allotment holders selling surplus produce to local markets and shops. [24436]
Andrew Stunell: An allotment garden must, by definition, be "wholly or mainly cultivated by the occupier for the production of vegetable or fruit crops for consumption by himself or his family" (Allotments Act 1922). There is no legal restriction on allotment holders selling genuine surplus produce, nor do the Government believe that there should be.
Departmental Disciplinary Proceedings
Mr Watson: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government whether any (a) Ministers, (b) civil servants and (c) politically-appointed staff in his Department have been disciplined for defamation since his appointment; and if he will make a statement. [23831]
Robert Neill: Since the Secretary of State for the Department for Communities and Local Government's appointment there have been no instances of disciplinary action for defamation against (a) Ministers, (b) civil servants and (c) politically-appointed staff.
Empty Dwelling Management Orders
Mrs Main: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how many (a) empty dwelling management orders have been made and (b) empty properties have been returned to use through an empty dwelling management order in each local authority area since the introduction of such orders. [23645]
Andrew Stunell: A list of empty dwelling management orders authorised by the Residential Property Tribunal Service in each local authority since they were introduced is set out in the following table. We do not hold information on how many of the properties have been returned to use.
| Authority | Number of EDMOs |
Fire Services: East of England
Dr Thérèse Coffey: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government when he expects the Eastern Region fire control centre to be operational. [23557]
Robert Neill [holding answer 15 November 2010]: The East of England control centre would not become operational until after mid-2011 on current timetables. It is not one of the first three control centres in which the IT system is required to be completed by the main FiReControl contractor EADS (now branded Cassidian) for that date.
I refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to my hon. Friend the Member for Tamworth (Christopher Pincher) on 15 November 2010, Official Report, column 537W, for steps that we have taken to ensure that EADS will meet their contractual obligations.
The FiReControl project, initiated by the last Government, is over budget and behind schedule. As with all major Government projects, it is being reviewed
to ensure value for money for the taxpayer. We have been clear that EADS must deliver to time, cost and quality. The new Government are committed to ensuring value for money for the taxpayer, improving resilience and stopping the forced regionalisation of the fire service.
Institute for Fiscal Studies
Robert Halfon: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government how much his Department and its predecessors spent on services provided by the Institute for Fiscal Studies in each of the last 10 years. [23403]
Robert Neill: The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) and its predecessor the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) were created following the machinery of government changes on 5 May 2006 and 29 May 2002 respectively.
Since the inception of ODPM, the annual total of payments to the Institute for Fiscal Studies is as follows:
| £ | |
The 2010-11 spending comprises £70 on research publications, and £1,600 on a training course that took place before the general election.
Expenditure figures prior to 2002-03 are not available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.
Ironbridge Gorge
David Wright: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what progress had been made on assessing the extent of land instability in the Ironbridge Gorge. [21228]
Robert Neill: My Department commissioned Advantage West Midlands to procure consultants (Wardell Armstrong) to verify the nature and scale of the land instability problems in the Ironbridge Gorge. My officials have completed the review of the consultants' report and the long-term strategy for addressing the land instability issues in Ironbridge Gorge is being considered following the outcome of the spending review published on 20 October 2010.
Local Government: Sustainable Development
Zac Goldsmith: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government when he plans to make a decision on the proposals for local sustainability strategies made by local authorities under the Sustainable Communities Act 2007 that have been shortlisted by the Local Government Association. [24667]
Robert Neill: The Department for Communities and Local Government's Business Plan states that the Government:
"will decide on proposals already submitted under the Sustainable Communities Act, and publish related steps the Government will take to enable local authorities to achieve what they want to see happen"
Non-domestic Rates: Surcharges
Conor Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government from what budget the cost of holding a binding vote on local authority proposals to introduce a local supplement on business rates would be met; and by what means such a binding vote would be held. [24060]
Robert Neill: It will be the responsibility of the levying authority to cover the cost of running a business rate supplement ballot. It is intended that a business rate supplement vote would be held via a postal ballot. A successful outcome will be where there is a simple majority of those who have voted in favour both in terms of the number of properties liable for the business rate supplement and the rateable value they represent.
Social Rented Housing: Lewisham
Heidi Alexander: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what proportion of the planned funding for decent homes announced in the comprehensive spending review will be made available to the Lewisham arm's-length management organisation. [24445]
Andrew Stunell: In the spending review we announced that we will invest over £2 billion of capital funding to help towards completing the Decent Homes programme. Of this, nearly £1.6 billion will be available over the next four years to help make local authority homes decent. We will be working with the Homes and Communities Agency to ensure that funding is allocated where it is needed. On 11 November we launched a consultation document jointly with the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) containing our proposals for managing the allocation process.
Travellers
Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what assessment he has made of the progress of his Department's review of the law affecting Travellers; and if he will make a statement. [23883]
Andrew Stunell: We are working on proposals to strengthen the powers that local authorities have to enforce against breaches of planning control and limiting the opportunities for retrospective planning applications in relation to any form of unauthorised development.
The Government will bring into force section 318 of the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 which includes local authority Traveller sites in the Mobile Homes Act 1983.
Later this month we will be introducing the Localism Bill to Parliament, which will abolish regional strategies.
Simon Kirby: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what recent representations he has received on the law relating to Travellers; and if he will make a statement. [23884]
Andrew Stunell: Between 18 June 2010 and 10 November 2010, we received 268 letters from members of the public, 123 items of ministerial correspondence, two petitions and two Freedom of Information requests on issues related to Travellers. The majority of these are about planning policy and about 30 relate to trespass and unauthorised encampments.
Attorney-General
Crown Prosecution Service
Mr Umunna: To ask the Attorney-General what plans he has for the future of each Crown Prosecution Service office. [24036]
The Solicitor-General: The following table records each property on the CPS estate. Planned closures have been agreed for a number of properties and these are noted on the table. Unless noted otherwise, it is planned that the majority of other sites will be retained at least until the next lease break opportunity or lease expiry.
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