Written question asked by Earl of Caithness (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Ashton of Upholland (Labour) on Monday, 1 October 2007.

Government: Advisers

Question: Whether, in their role as advisers to the Government, Lord Lester of Herne Hill, Baroness Neuberger, Lord Stevens of Kirkwhelpington and Baroness Williams of Crosby will be bound by the Official Secrets Act 1989.

Answer: The advisers will have access to relevant departmental papers as appropriate. The Official Secrets Act and the normal rules on confidentiality when working with the Government will apply. Should they wish, they will have use of office space in the relevant government departments and access to secretarial assistance as appropriate. They will be able to claim out-of-pocket expenses associated with their role. In addition, they are covered by the rules of the House, including the requirements of the Register of Lords’ Interests.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 4786; 694 c205-6WA
Session: 2006-07
Notes: Answer received between Monday 3 September and Friday 7 September.
Subjects: Access Allowances House of Lords Government departments Publications Official secrets Peers Special advisers Offices Registration Peers' interests Secretarial staff Williams of Crosby, Baroness Lester of Herne Hill, Lord Neuberger, Baroness Stevens of Kirkwhelpington, Lord
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk