Written question asked by David Heath (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 6 December 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 19 December 2000. It was answered by Baroness Beckett (Labour) on Tuesday, 19 December 2000 on behalf of the Leader of the House of Commons.

President of the Council;Leader of the House of Commons

Question: To ask the President of the Council, what guidance is given to Ministers on transferring questions tabled to them which lie (a) wholly and (b) partly within their area of responsibility. (Failed OPQ)

Answer: Mr. David Heath: To ask the President of the Council what guidance is given to Ministers on transferring questions tabled to them which lie (a) wholly and (b) partly within their area of responsibility. [141614] Mrs. Beckett: No central guidance is issued as such, beyond that in `Erskine May', questions fall to the Minister who is primarily responsible. Departmental parliamentary branches are expected to take account of the list of ministerial responsibilities issued by the Cabinet Office and rulings from the Chair, such as that given by the Chairman of Ways and Means on 18 July.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 360 c151W; 141614
Session: 2000-01
Question not reached: Yes
Subjects: Ministerial duties Ministers Parliamentary questions Transfer of questions
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk