Written question asked by Lord Maude of Horsham (Conservative) on Thursday, 27 March 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 31 March 2008. It was answered by Phil Hope (Labour) on Tuesday, 1 April 2008 on behalf of the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.

Smith Institute

Question: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what the status is of the Charity Commission's investigation into the Smith Institute; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: This is a matter for the Charity Commission as the independent regulator of charities in England and Wales. The Commission has told me that it cannot, at this stage, provide a precise timeline for the completion of its inquiry, but that it is currently expected to be concluded by early summer. The Commission will, as is its normal practice, publish a report of its findings after the inquiry is completed, setting out any wider lessons for the charity sector.

Secondary information