Written question asked by Martin Salter (Labour) on Wednesday, 9 February 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 February 2000. It was answered by David Lock (Labour) on Monday, 14 February 2000 on behalf of the Lord Chancellor's Department.

Lord Chancellors Dept

Question: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department, what action he plans to take to ensure transparency and public accountability in the workings of Legal Aid Board offices, with particular reference to the Reading Area Office.

Answer: Mr. Salter: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what action he plans to take to ensure transparency and public accountability in the workings of Legal Aid Board offices, with particular reference to the Reading Area Office. [110013] Mr. Lock: As a non-departmental public body, the Legal Aid Board is required to comply with Government Accounting standards in its management of public funds. The Board provides information about its activities in its Annual Report and Accounts, which are laid before Parliament and published, and in accordance with the principles in the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information. Members of the Board are appointed by the Lord Chancellor, and have responsibility for ensuring high standards of corporate governance, including openness. I am prepared to consider carefully and refer to the Board as appropriate any evidence of misconduct or breakdown of these arrangements at the Reading area office.

Secondary information