Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government when monthly reporting of Ministerial data on gifts and hospitality will begin; what the gap will be between events each month and the publication of the details; when the Gov.uk platform containing such data will go live; and whether it will include senior officials and special advisers as well as Ministers.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

This Government will introduce a register for ministers’ gifts and hospitality bringing publication of ministerial transparency data on a broadly equivalent basis to the parliamentary register.

Work on the new register is progressing and further details will be published in due course. Transparency data for ministerial meetings and overseas travel, special advisers and senior officials will continue to be published quarterly as it has been under previous administrations.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government when Universal Music originally made the offer of hospitality of two sets of Taylor Swift concert tickets to the Prime Minister.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

16 August 2024.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether individuals of pension age receiving a pension from the security and intelligence services are able to accrue a civil service pension if employed by the civil service.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The security and intelligence services' pension scheme is separate from the Civil Service Pension Scheme. It is possible for an individual, in receipt of benefits from the pension scheme for the security and intelligence services, to accrue a Civil Service pension if employed in the Civil Service, and then receive a pension from both schemes when they retire.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, with reference to the Model Contract for Special Advisers, what is the value of any severance payment in lieu of notice if a special adviser is dismissed during, or at the conclusion of, a special adviser’s four-month probationary period.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Paragraph 6c of the Model Contract for Special Advisers sets out a special adviser's entitlements if they are dismissed during or at the conclusion of their 4-month probationary period, or if they terminate their employment by giving notice during that same period.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether the portraits of Elizabeth I, Sir Walter Raleigh, William Gladstone, Margaret Thatcher and William Shakespeare, which formerly hung in 10 Downing Street, have either been (1) rehung elsewhere; or (2) moved into storage; and if so, where.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

I refer the Noble Lord to my answer of 23 September 2024, Official Report, PQ HL1035 and the answer of the Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Office, Georgia Gould, 31 October 2024, Official Report, PQ 8943. To note, the portrait of William Gladstone was hung in 11 Downing Street, rather than 10 Downing Street.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to the written statement entitled Cabinet Committees, published on 10 October 2024, HCWS118, for what reason the Secretary of State for Business and Trade is no longer a permanent member of the National Security Council.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security Council is a Cabinet Committee, membership of Cabinet Committees is decided by the Prime Minister. Cabinet committees have a standing membership, however other Ministers will be invited according to the agenda.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to the written statement entitled Cabinet Committees, published on 10 October 2024, HCWS118, for what reason the National Security Council Economic Security sub-committee has been abolished; and what steps are being taken to co-ordinate economic security policy.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The body referred to in the Rt Hon. Members' question was one of a number of sub-Committees of the National Security Council (NSC). Since July 2024 the National Security Council itself considers economic security, as part of its broader strategic approach to national security including foreign policy, resilience, international relations, economic security, trade, development, defence and global issues.

Economic security is a priority for this Government, and we have taken a number of steps to coordinate economic security policy through the NSC and by embedding economic security into the Government’s Industrial Strategy to support long-term stability. Economic Security is a core concern of the Growth Mission Board and our work with international partners.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what (a) policy reviews, (b) new and revised strategies, (c) green papers and (d) white papers relating to the policy areas covered in the (i) The Integrated Review 2021, published on 16 March 2021, and (ii) Integrated Review Refresh 2023, published on 13 March 2023, each Department is working on.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The government has launched a number of reviews and strategies relating to policy areas covered in the Integrated Review (2021) and Integrated Review Refresh (2023). These include but are not limited to:

• Strategic Defence Review - Ministry of Defence

• AUKUS Review - Ministry of Defence

• China Audit - Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

• Global Impact Review - Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

• Economic Diplomacy Review - Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

• International Development Review - Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

• Resilience Review - Cabinet Office

• Trade Strategy - Department for Business and Trade

• Industrial Strategy - Department for Business and Trade

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether the appointment of the Principal Private Secretary to the Prime Minister was by open and fair competition.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Cabinet Secretary recommended a range of candidates and the Prime Minister interviewed a number of them before selecting his Principle Private Secretary.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government how many special advisers are employed by the Government.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

As when the noble Lord was a special adviser under the previous administration, the number of special advisers will be published in the Annual Report on Special Advisers.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of (a) adding and (b) removing sectors from the scope of the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 gives the Government power to scrutinise and intervene in acquisitions that may pose threats to national security, whilst also supporting secure and resilient growth. All sectors are within scope of the NSI Act, with acquisitions of entities related to 17 sensitive areas of the economy having to notify and receive approval from the Government before the acquisition can be completed.

The Government is taking a number of steps to ensure the continued effectiveness of the NSI Act.

• The previous Government published a Call for Evidence in November 2023 and a response in April 2024. The Call for Evidence sought feedback from a wide range of stakeholders on the scope of the regime, the notification process and Government guidance and comms. The Government is currently considering its next steps, drawing on responses received.

• The Government will review and produce a report on the mandatory notification areas under the NSI Act, as required by section 4 of the Notifiable Acquisitions Regulations 2021, before January 2025.

• The Government will complete a Post-Implementation Review, as committed to in the NSI Act Impact Assessment, evaluating the effectiveness of the NSI Act. This is expected to be published in 2026.

• The Government regularly engages with stakeholders on the NSI Act, including speaking events, meetings and feedback exercises.

The Government has published extensive guidance for businesses and investors. The NSI Act Market Guidance sets out what businesses and investors, including small and medium-sized businesses, need to be aware of and is available on GOV.UK. The guidance is kept under review to ensure it remains up to date.

The “National Security & Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-2024” published in September shows that the NSI system is continuing to run well and as intended. It demonstrates that we have the powers to protect sensitive sectors whilst continuing to support investment. Analysis to date has not found evidence of the Act affecting the total volume of investment into the UK.

The UK’s approach to investment screening is in line with many other countries, including our close allies. We continue to work closely with international partners to draw on global best practice.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps his Department has taken to ensure that small and medium-sized businesses are aware of their obligations under the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 gives the Government power to scrutinise and intervene in acquisitions that may pose threats to national security, whilst also supporting secure and resilient growth. All sectors are within scope of the NSI Act, with acquisitions of entities related to 17 sensitive areas of the economy having to notify and receive approval from the Government before the acquisition can be completed.

The Government is taking a number of steps to ensure the continued effectiveness of the NSI Act.

• The previous Government published a Call for Evidence in November 2023 and a response in April 2024. The Call for Evidence sought feedback from a wide range of stakeholders on the scope of the regime, the notification process and Government guidance and comms. The Government is currently considering its next steps, drawing on responses received.

• The Government will review and produce a report on the mandatory notification areas under the NSI Act, as required by section 4 of the Notifiable Acquisitions Regulations 2021, before January 2025.

• The Government will complete a Post-Implementation Review, as committed to in the NSI Act Impact Assessment, evaluating the effectiveness of the NSI Act. This is expected to be published in 2026.

• The Government regularly engages with stakeholders on the NSI Act, including speaking events, meetings and feedback exercises.

The Government has published extensive guidance for businesses and investors. The NSI Act Market Guidance sets out what businesses and investors, including small and medium-sized businesses, need to be aware of and is available on GOV.UK. The guidance is kept under review to ensure it remains up to date.

The “National Security & Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-2024” published in September shows that the NSI system is continuing to run well and as intended. It demonstrates that we have the powers to protect sensitive sectors whilst continuing to support investment. Analysis to date has not found evidence of the Act affecting the total volume of investment into the UK.

The UK’s approach to investment screening is in line with many other countries, including our close allies. We continue to work closely with international partners to draw on global best practice.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what assessment he has made of the impact of the National Security and Investment Act 2021 on foreign direct investment since 1 April 2023.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 gives the Government power to scrutinise and intervene in acquisitions that may pose threats to national security, whilst also supporting secure and resilient growth. All sectors are within scope of the NSI Act, with acquisitions of entities related to 17 sensitive areas of the economy having to notify and receive approval from the Government before the acquisition can be completed.

The Government is taking a number of steps to ensure the continued effectiveness of the NSI Act.

• The previous Government published a Call for Evidence in November 2023 and a response in April 2024. The Call for Evidence sought feedback from a wide range of stakeholders on the scope of the regime, the notification process and Government guidance and comms. The Government is currently considering its next steps, drawing on responses received.

• The Government will review and produce a report on the mandatory notification areas under the NSI Act, as required by section 4 of the Notifiable Acquisitions Regulations 2021, before January 2025.

• The Government will complete a Post-Implementation Review, as committed to in the NSI Act Impact Assessment, evaluating the effectiveness of the NSI Act. This is expected to be published in 2026.

• The Government regularly engages with stakeholders on the NSI Act, including speaking events, meetings and feedback exercises.

The Government has published extensive guidance for businesses and investors. The NSI Act Market Guidance sets out what businesses and investors, including small and medium-sized businesses, need to be aware of and is available on GOV.UK. The guidance is kept under review to ensure it remains up to date.

The “National Security & Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-2024” published in September shows that the NSI system is continuing to run well and as intended. It demonstrates that we have the powers to protect sensitive sectors whilst continuing to support investment. Analysis to date has not found evidence of the Act affecting the total volume of investment into the UK.

The UK’s approach to investment screening is in line with many other countries, including our close allies. We continue to work closely with international partners to draw on global best practice.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps he has taken to increase the effectiveness of processing notifications under the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 gives the Government power to scrutinise and intervene in acquisitions that may pose threats to national security, whilst also supporting secure and resilient growth. All sectors are within scope of the NSI Act, with acquisitions of entities related to 17 sensitive areas of the economy having to notify and receive approval from the Government before the acquisition can be completed.

The Government is taking a number of steps to ensure the continued effectiveness of the NSI Act.

• The previous Government published a Call for Evidence in November 2023 and a response in April 2024. The Call for Evidence sought feedback from a wide range of stakeholders on the scope of the regime, the notification process and Government guidance and comms. The Government is currently considering its next steps, drawing on responses received.

• The Government will review and produce a report on the mandatory notification areas under the NSI Act, as required by section 4 of the Notifiable Acquisitions Regulations 2021, before January 2025.

• The Government will complete a Post-Implementation Review, as committed to in the NSI Act Impact Assessment, evaluating the effectiveness of the NSI Act. This is expected to be published in 2026.

• The Government regularly engages with stakeholders on the NSI Act, including speaking events, meetings and feedback exercises.

The Government has published extensive guidance for businesses and investors. The NSI Act Market Guidance sets out what businesses and investors, including small and medium-sized businesses, need to be aware of and is available on GOV.UK. The guidance is kept under review to ensure it remains up to date.

The “National Security & Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-2024” published in September shows that the NSI system is continuing to run well and as intended. It demonstrates that we have the powers to protect sensitive sectors whilst continuing to support investment. Analysis to date has not found evidence of the Act affecting the total volume of investment into the UK.

The UK’s approach to investment screening is in line with many other countries, including our close allies. We continue to work closely with international partners to draw on global best practice.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps his Department is taking to review the effectiveness of the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 gives the Government power to scrutinise and intervene in acquisitions that may pose threats to national security, whilst also supporting secure and resilient growth. All sectors are within scope of the NSI Act, with acquisitions of entities related to 17 sensitive areas of the economy having to notify and receive approval from the Government before the acquisition can be completed.

The Government is taking a number of steps to ensure the continued effectiveness of the NSI Act.

• The previous Government published a Call for Evidence in November 2023 and a response in April 2024. The Call for Evidence sought feedback from a wide range of stakeholders on the scope of the regime, the notification process and Government guidance and comms. The Government is currently considering its next steps, drawing on responses received.

• The Government will review and produce a report on the mandatory notification areas under the NSI Act, as required by section 4 of the Notifiable Acquisitions Regulations 2021, before January 2025.

• The Government will complete a Post-Implementation Review, as committed to in the NSI Act Impact Assessment, evaluating the effectiveness of the NSI Act. This is expected to be published in 2026.

• The Government regularly engages with stakeholders on the NSI Act, including speaking events, meetings and feedback exercises.

The Government has published extensive guidance for businesses and investors. The NSI Act Market Guidance sets out what businesses and investors, including small and medium-sized businesses, need to be aware of and is available on GOV.UK. The guidance is kept under review to ensure it remains up to date.

The “National Security & Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-2024” published in September shows that the NSI system is continuing to run well and as intended. It demonstrates that we have the powers to protect sensitive sectors whilst continuing to support investment. Analysis to date has not found evidence of the Act affecting the total volume of investment into the UK.

The UK’s approach to investment screening is in line with many other countries, including our close allies. We continue to work closely with international partners to draw on global best practice.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what consultation has been undertaken with industry stakeholders on the effectiveness of the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 gives the Government power to scrutinise and intervene in acquisitions that may pose threats to national security, whilst also supporting secure and resilient growth. All sectors are within scope of the NSI Act, with acquisitions of entities related to 17 sensitive areas of the economy having to notify and receive approval from the Government before the acquisition can be completed.

The Government is taking a number of steps to ensure the continued effectiveness of the NSI Act.

• The previous Government published a Call for Evidence in November 2023 and a response in April 2024. The Call for Evidence sought feedback from a wide range of stakeholders on the scope of the regime, the notification process and Government guidance and comms. The Government is currently considering its next steps, drawing on responses received.

• The Government will review and produce a report on the mandatory notification areas under the NSI Act, as required by section 4 of the Notifiable Acquisitions Regulations 2021, before January 2025.

• The Government will complete a Post-Implementation Review, as committed to in the NSI Act Impact Assessment, evaluating the effectiveness of the NSI Act. This is expected to be published in 2026.

• The Government regularly engages with stakeholders on the NSI Act, including speaking events, meetings and feedback exercises.

The Government has published extensive guidance for businesses and investors. The NSI Act Market Guidance sets out what businesses and investors, including small and medium-sized businesses, need to be aware of and is available on GOV.UK. The guidance is kept under review to ensure it remains up to date.

The “National Security & Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-2024” published in September shows that the NSI system is continuing to run well and as intended. It demonstrates that we have the powers to protect sensitive sectors whilst continuing to support investment. Analysis to date has not found evidence of the Act affecting the total volume of investment into the UK.

The UK’s approach to investment screening is in line with many other countries, including our close allies. We continue to work closely with international partners to draw on global best practice.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what discussions he has held with his international counterparts on the implementation of the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security and Investment (NSI) Act 2021 gives the Government power to scrutinise and intervene in acquisitions that may pose threats to national security, whilst also supporting secure and resilient growth. All sectors are within scope of the NSI Act, with acquisitions of entities related to 17 sensitive areas of the economy having to notify and receive approval from the Government before the acquisition can be completed.

The Government is taking a number of steps to ensure the continued effectiveness of the NSI Act.

• The previous Government published a Call for Evidence in November 2023 and a response in April 2024. The Call for Evidence sought feedback from a wide range of stakeholders on the scope of the regime, the notification process and Government guidance and comms. The Government is currently considering its next steps, drawing on responses received.

• The Government will review and produce a report on the mandatory notification areas under the NSI Act, as required by section 4 of the Notifiable Acquisitions Regulations 2021, before January 2025.

• The Government will complete a Post-Implementation Review, as committed to in the NSI Act Impact Assessment, evaluating the effectiveness of the NSI Act. This is expected to be published in 2026.

• The Government regularly engages with stakeholders on the NSI Act, including speaking events, meetings and feedback exercises.

The Government has published extensive guidance for businesses and investors. The NSI Act Market Guidance sets out what businesses and investors, including small and medium-sized businesses, need to be aware of and is available on GOV.UK. The guidance is kept under review to ensure it remains up to date.

The “National Security & Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-2024” published in September shows that the NSI system is continuing to run well and as intended. It demonstrates that we have the powers to protect sensitive sectors whilst continuing to support investment. Analysis to date has not found evidence of the Act affecting the total volume of investment into the UK.

The UK’s approach to investment screening is in line with many other countries, including our close allies. We continue to work closely with international partners to draw on global best practice.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to his Department's publication entitled National Security and Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-24, published on 10 September 2024, for what reason there was the reduction in the average time taken to issue a final order under the National Security and Investment Act from 81 statutory working days to 34 statutory working days.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The time taken to issue a final order for each called in acquisition will depend on the facts of the case. Given the small number of final orders (five) issued in this reporting period (1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024), no conclusions should be drawn about any trends in the time taken between calling in an acquisition and issuing a final order.

It is worth noting that with only two years’ worth of data, and each acquisition assessed on its own merits, the Government expects to see some variation in the majority of statistics from year to year.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will (a) make it his policy to (i) update the statutes of the Most Illustrious Order of Saint Patrick and (ii) make the Order available to residents of the whole island of Ireland and (b) make an assessment of the potential impact of that policy on the state of the Union.

Answered by Nick Thomas-Symonds - Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office

The Most Illustrious Order of Saint Patrick is in the personal gift of The Sovereign. The UK Government is not considering the restoration of The Order of St Patrick.

Nominations for existing honours are open to all citizens within the four nations of the United Kingdom.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will have discussions with the Northern Ireland Executive on the potential impact of the proposed Hillsborough Law on public services in Northern Ireland.

Answered by Nick Thomas-Symonds - Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office

As the Prime Minister announced recently, the Hillsborough Law is a priority for this Government. Discussions have already begun between officials in the Cabinet Office and those in the devolved governments. I will continue to ensure that Ministerial colleagues in the devolved governments are engaged on this policy.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 15 October 2024 to Question 6998 on Cabinet Office: Official Cars, how many of those vehicles are electric.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

For security reasons specific details of allocations including make and model of vehicles are not issued.

The arrangements relating to the usage of vehicles in the Government Car Service are set out in the Civil Service Management Code.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to the report by the UK Covid Inquiry entitled Module 1 report: The resilience and preparedness of the United Kingdom, published on 18 July 2024, HC 18, what steps his Department is taking to help support the voluntary sector to participate in (a) local resilience forums and (b) emergency response exercises.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Cabinet Office recognises the valuable role that the voluntary and community sector can play in all aspects of resilience. The Civil Contingencies Act 2004 requires those responders most likely to be involved in emergencies (Category 1 responders) ‘to have regard’ to the activities of voluntary organisations in the course of carrying out their duties. This is further reinforced in guidance and standards highlighting the benefits which the voluntary and community sector can bring to local partners and Local Resilience Forums.

The voluntary sector is also being included in the reinvigorated National Exercising Programme (NEP) to test our readiness to respond to risks set out in the National Security Risk Assessment (NSRA) through the participation of Local Resilience Forums. This programme complements existing emergency response exercises being led by and involving Government Departments, Local Government, the Devolved Administrations and industry organisations.

To further develop and support engagement, the Head of Resilience in the Cabinet Office chairs the Voluntary and Community Sector Strategic Discussion Forum every six months, with key voluntary sector organisations. Cabinet Office will continue to explore opportunities to further strengthen voluntary sector engagement to build national resilience.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions the Prime Minister had with the Secretaries of State for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland respectively before appointing Sue Gray as his envoy to the nations and regions of the United Kingdom.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Prime Minister began immediate work to reset relationships with leaders in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and regional mayors in England. The Prime Minister travelled to meet with the First Ministers in Scotland and Wales, and the First Minister and deputy First Minister in Northern Ireland within the first week of being in office. He also hosted the regional mayors for a meeting in Downing Street. He has since had further correspondence and conversations with leaders across the nations and regions, including at the first Council of the Nations and Regions. He speaks regularly to the Secretaries of State for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, including at Cabinet meetings.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions the Prime Minister had with the First Ministers of Scotland and Wales, the First and deputy First Ministers of Northern Ireland, and combined authority mayors prior to appointing Sue Gray as his envoy to the nations and regions.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Prime Minister began immediate work to reset relationships with leaders in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and regional mayors in England. The Prime Minister travelled to meet with the First Ministers in Scotland and Wales, and the First Minister and deputy First Minister in Northern Ireland within the first week of being in office. He also hosted the regional mayors for a meeting in Downing Street. He has since had further correspondence and conversations with leaders across the nations and regions, including at the first Council of the Nations and Regions. He speaks regularly to the Secretaries of State for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, including at Cabinet meetings.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, which special advisers (a) are members of and (b) attend as observers of the National Security Council.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Membership of the National Security Council is restricted to Ministers. A list of members can be found on Gov.uk. To protect cabinet collective responsibility, observer attendance is strictly controlled.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 14 October 2024 to Question 6999 on Cabinet Office: Official Cars, if he will publish a list of senior officials in his Department with access to a government car.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

For security reasons specific details of car allocations including make and model of vehicles are not issued.

The arrangements relating to the usage of vehicles in the Government Car Service are set out in the Civil Service Management Code.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether project bank accounts (PBAs) were in place on all public sector projects undertaken by ISG Limited for Government departments, in line with the Government's Construction Playbook which states that PBAs “should be used unless there are compelling reasons not to”; and if not, which such projects did not use PBAs, and why.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Construction Playbook sets out key policies and guidance for how public works projects and programmes are assessed, procured and delivered and includes guidance that “Project Bank Accounts are not always suitable, but should be used unless there are compelling reasons not to”. It is for Contracting Authorities to determine how to implement this guidance appropriately for each contract. The Cabinet Office does not hold data on the use of Project Bank Accounts for other departments.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Smith of Basildon on 9 October (HL1436), how many civil servants have currently been granted a formal exemption and are approved to have TikTok on Government devices.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Cabinet Office does not collect this data centrally. Where an essential business requirement necessitates the use of TikTok, this is managed through a formal exemptions and approvals process which takes place at departmental level.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how many evaluations relating to Government policies, projects or programmes have been exempted from publication due to national security concerns in the last 12 months; and what steps his Department is taking to ensure adequate levels of public accountability of (a) high-risk and (b) high-cost projects.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Departments are responsible for making determinations about whether evaluation plans and findings should be withheld from publication on the grounds that publication would threaten national security.

In cases where departments determine that evaluation plans or reports should not be published because the contents fall under any exemption outlined in the Freedom of Information Act, the Evaluation Registry guidance states that departments should make this clear in writing to the Evaluation Task Force (Cabinet Office). Exemptions include but are not limited to national security.

Since April 2024 -- when the use of the Evaluation Registry was made mandatory for government departments -- the Evaluation Task Force has been notified of one evaluation which has not been added to the Evaluation Registry on the grounds that it meets an exemption outlined in the Act. Further guidance on publication exemptions is available online on the 'Guidance on using the Evaluation Registry' webpage.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will conduct a review on insourcing public sector language services.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Government will always aim to secure value for money and social value. As part of this, contracting authorities are required to take an analytical evidenced based approach on each contract and undertake a Delivery Model Assessment when making decisions about the right model for delivering public services.

This assessment is the responsibility of the relevant individual contracting authority.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether he has received representations from (a) civil servants and (b) trade unions on the use of recruitment principles exemptions since 4 July 2024.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Minister has received no such representations from (a) civil servants and (b) trade unions on the use of recruitment principles exceptions since 4 July 2024.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 10 October 2024 to Question 7568 on Civil Service: Productivity, what metrics his Department uses to assess productivity in the (a) Civil Service and (b) wider public sector.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Over the coming months the Cabinet Office and HM Treasury will continue to work with departments to improve productivity and efficiency both in the public sector and in the Civil Service. More detail on this work will be provided at the next multi-year Spending Review, due to conclude in Spring 2025. The Government is also developing a strategic plan for a more efficient and effective civil service, including bold options to improve skills, harness digital technology and drive better outcomes for public services.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) publishes quarterly and annual estimates for public service productivity. To further improve this world leading measure the ONS is undertaking a review of public service productivity, partnering with government departments, academics and expert users to help develop and improve methodology and data sources.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether (a) the Prime Minister and (b) the Prime Minister’s officials had discussions with the (i) the Home Department, (ii) Attorney General and (iii) Metropolitan Police on Special Escort Group policing for (A) Taylor Swift and (B) her entourage.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The safety of the British public is the first priority of this Government. We make no apologies for ensuring citizens are protected.

It is entirely right that for major events in the capital, the Government has a dialogue with the Metropolitan Police and Mayor to discuss planning to ensure events happen safely. Operational decisions on security arrangements are made by the police, independent of politicians.

It is long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on security arrangements, as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals’ security.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what is the estimated carbon footprint of the Prime Minister's recent visit to Samoa.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Ministerial travel is undertaken using efficient and cost-effective travel arrangements. Security considerations are also taken into account. It has been the practice that official Prime Ministerial flights are carbon offset and use Sustainable Aviation Fuel where either are possible.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 12 September 2024 to Question 4654 on Public Sector: Trade Unions, what the Government's policy is on check-off; and how many departments (a) charge trade unions for levying check-off and (b) have no check-off arrangements.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

I refer the Rt. Hon. Member to the answer given to PQ 4654 on 12 September 2024.

Data on check-off provisions in the Civil Service can be found in the impact assessment published under the previous administration alongside The Trade Union (Deduction of Union Subscriptions from Wages in the Public Sector) Regulations 2024. This data was collected prior to the regulations coming into effect.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the timetable is for publication of up to £150,000 senior salaries transparency data on gov.uk; and whether this list will include special advisers.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Cabinet Office publishes an annual list of named senior civil servants and senior officials in departments, agencies and non-departmental public bodies earning £150,000 and above. The previous administration did not publish a 2023 list. The Cabinet Office will confirm arrangements for future publications of the list in due course.There are separate transparency arrangements for special advisers.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 16 September 2024 to Question 4658 on Civil Servants: Recruitment, if he will place a copy of the report on Time to Hire in the Library.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Since question 4658 was answered the data has been updated. The Time To Hire data, for campaigns completed between April and June 2024, indicates the median averages for the Whitehall 17 departments range between 25 and 69 calendar days for grades AA to Grade 6, and 20 and 70 calendar days for SCS Pay Bands 1 and 2.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 16 September 2024 to Question 4658 on Civil Servants: Recruitment, if he will publish the Time To Hire data.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Since question 4658 was answered the data has been updated. The Time To Hire data, for campaigns completed between April and June 2024, indicates the median averages for the Whitehall 17 departments range between 25 and 69 calendar days for grades AA to Grade 6, and 20 and 70 calendar days for SCS Pay Bands 1 and 2.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what plans the Government has for revising his policy on accepting hospitality from the (a) football and (b) music industry.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

I refer the hon. Member to the answers by my hon. Friend, the Minister without Portfolio, during the Urgent Question, Reporting Ministerial Gifts and Hospitality, on 14 October 2024, Official Report, Columns 594-602.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what guidance his Department issues on Environmental, Social and Governance requirements in government procurement.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) will set out the Government’s strategic policy priorities for public procurement to create a mission-led procurement regime delivering value for money, economic growth, social value, and driving up standards.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether planned revised guidance on Ministers accepting hospitality from the (a) football and (b) music industry will apply to specialist advisers.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Ministerial Code guidance on hospitality applies to ministers.

The Code of Conduct for Special Advisers sets out the requirements for Special Advisers in respect of hospitality. .

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether he plans to update the guidance entitled (a) Special advisers’ gifts and hospitality received, and meetings with Senior Media Figures, published on 2 April 2024, and (b) Senior Officials’ business expenses, hospitality received and meetings with external organisations and individuals, published on 2 April 2024.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

This Government has committed to looking at how the range of data published can be improved and made as useful as possible.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether the Prime Minister has had discussions with (a) the Premier League and (b) football clubs on (i) statutory football regulation and (ii) the taxation of football clubs.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Ministerial meetings with external organisations will be published in the usual way on gov.uk as part of the government’s transparency agenda.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 2 September 2024 to Question 2060 on Ministers: Conduct, what steps the Prime Minister is taking to ensure that paragraph 9.1 is followed by all Departments.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Prime Minister published the new Ministerial Code on 6 November. The Code sets out the standards of conduct that all ministers are expected to uphold.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether there is a cost to the public purse of the upkeep of cats at 10 Downing Street.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

There is no cost to the public purse.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what financial interests have been declared by Varun Chandra.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

As was the case under the previous Administration, interests deemed relevant for publication by the appropriate permanent secretary, for special advisers in No10 and the Cabinet Office, are published on an annual basis by the Cabinet Office.

For special advisers in other departments, interests deemed relevant for publication by the appropriate permanent secretary are published by the relevant department on an annual basis in, or alongside, the department’s Annual Report and Accounts.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how many civil service staff earned above £100,000 a year in (a) January 2024 and (b) the latest period for which data is available.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Civil Service Statistics (Table 35) provides information on the number of civil servants earning over £100,000 and in other bandings. The latest information can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/civil-service-statistics-2024

The previous administration did not publish a 2023 list. The Cabinet Office will publish this in due course following the usual process.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how many civil servants earn (a) over £100,000 and (b) more than the Prime Minister.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Civil Service Statistics (Table 35) provides information on the number of civil servants earning over £100,000 and in other bandings. The latest information can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/civil-service-statistics-2024

The previous administration did not publish a 2023 list. The Cabinet Office will publish this in due course following the usual process.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what proportion of special advisers have signed a contract.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

All special advisers are subject to the Model Contract for Special Advisers, which is published online at GOV.UK.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 31 October 2024 to Question 10967 on Government Departments: Disclosure of Information, if he will outline (a) potential changes to the scope, manner and frequency of Ministerial reporting and (b) the extent to which those changes differ from the previous Government's commitments set out in his Department's policy paper entitled Strengthening Ethics and Integrity in Central Government, published in July 2023.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

This Government will introduce a register for ministers’ gifts and hospitality bringing publication of ministerial transparency data on a broadly equivalent basis to the parliamentary register.

This Government is fully committed to transparency and openness, and is committed to looking at how the range of information published can be improved and made as useful as possible.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 27 September 2024 to Question 5039 on Special Advisers: Business Interests, if he will publish that register before 19 December 2024.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

I refer the Right Honourable member to the previous answer.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 30 July 2024 to Question 1261 on Senior Civil Servants, if he will provide a breakdown by (a) department and (b) job title of senior civil service jobs (i) offered and (ii) appointed since 30 July 2024.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

Information on Senior Civil Service appointments is not collated centrally. Departments can run campaigns outside of the central recruitment services through their own Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) or processes or made appointments from existing reserve lists. Therefore, we are unable to provide a full response.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the answer of 16 September 2024 to Question 4698 on Civil Servants: Temporary Employment, what steps the Government is taking to reduce reliance on contingent labour; and what guidance his Department has issued.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

I refer the Honourable Gentleman to his previous question of September 9th of this year, the details of which remain the same. Further information will be announced in due course.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether (a) the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff and (b) the Cabinet Office have developed contingency plans for (i) a strike and (ii) a work to rule by special advisers.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

I refer the Right Honourable Member to the answer given on 25th July 2024.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to table 5 of the National Security and Investment Act 2021: Annual Report 2023-24, published on 10 September 2024, for what reason each of the withdrawals from a called in acquisition withdrew; and whether he plans to ask companies to withdraw rather than proceeding with formal intervention.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

There is no requirement for parties to inform the Government before they withdraw from acquisitions or to tell the Government the reasons behind the withdrawal.

Parties might withdraw from deals for a variety of reasons, including reasons unrelated to the National Security and Investment (NSI) Act.

All acquisitions are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to the Answer of 15 January 2024 to Question 7805 on Ministers: Members' Interests, what the budget is for the development of the single platform for transparency data; and which organisation has been tasked with developing the platform.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

This Government is committed to looking at how the range of information published can be improved and made as useful as possible.

This Government will introduce a register for ministers’ gifts and hospitality bringing publication of ministerial transparency data on a broadly equivalent basis to the parliamentary register.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what guidance has been given to Government special advisers on whether they can campaign in the United States presidential elections.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Special advisers are required to follow the Code of Conduct for Special Advisers.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will make an assessment of the adequacy of guidance provided to people on (a) the process and (b) timelines in relation to the admissibility of any complaint to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.

Answered by Nick Thomas-Symonds - Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman publishes guidance on what it can and cannot investigate, timescales and what those making complaints can expect. The Ombudsman is independent of Government, so it is for the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee to consider whether the guidance is adequate.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how many registrations have been made with the Infected Blood Interim Compensation Payment Scheme in (a) Lincolnshire and (b) the East Midlands.

Answered by Nick Thomas-Symonds - Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office

As of July 2024, 3,698 interim compensation payments have been paid to living infected persons and bereaved partners. This information is not made available on a regional basis. The process under which estates can apply for interim compensation payments opened on 24th October. We will provide an update on the number of applications in due course.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to raise standards of integrity in government.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Government is a government of service and it is committed to restoring trust and confidence in public life. The Prime Minister will soon issue his Ministerial Code which outlines the standards expected of all Ministers.

In addition, the Government will establish a new independent Ethics and Integrity Commission, with its own independent Chair. We will ensure that this Commission has the powers and remit necessary to fulfil its responsibilities.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Twycross on 16 September (HL694), which arms-length bodies are currently affiliated to Stonewall at public expense, according to records held by the Government.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Information on how issued funding is spent by arms length bodies, including payments to third party organisations, is not gathered centrally.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Smith of Basildon on 1 October (HL1036), whether it is their intention to publish the full dataset gathered from the Civil Service Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Expenditure Review.

Answered by Baroness Twycross - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

We are currently considering the Civil Service Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Expenditure Review commissioned by the previous Government.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to (a) written statement entitled Cabinet Committees, published on 10 October 2024, HCWS118 and (b) his Department's publication entitled List of Cabinet Committees, updated on 21 October 2024, for what reason the Deputy Prime Minister was not listed as a member of the National Security Committee in the version published on 10 October.

Answered by Abena Oppong-Asare - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The National Security Council is a Cabinet Committee, membership of Cabinet Committees is decided by the Prime Minister. In recognition that the Deputy Prime Minister would be regularly invited to attend, she has been made a permanent member as of 21 October 2024.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, when he plans to respond to the First Report of the Liaison Committee of 2023-24 on Promoting national strategy: How select committee scrutiny can improve strategic thinking in Whitehall, HC 31, published on 29 May 2024; and whether he plans to establish a new national school for government and public services.

Answered by Nick Thomas-Symonds - Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office

The Government looks forward to discussing this report with the incoming Liaison Committee Chair once elected.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, for what reason the Prime Minister’s new Envoy for the Nations and Regions did not attend the first meeting of the Council for the Nations and Regions.

Answered by Nick Thomas-Symonds - Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office

The attendee list at the first meeting of the Council for the Nations and Regions was: the Prime Minister, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, the First Ministers of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, and the regional Mayors.

Replace the First-Past-the-Post voting system for Westminster. Repair the crisis of trust in Politics with a proportional system so all votes count equally.

The 2024 UK general election was the least representative in our history. 1 in 5 voted tactically, and 74% of votes were ‘wasted’.

I want the government to hold a referendum on whether the UK should Rejoin the European Union.

We are petitioning for a National Referendum to decide whether the current electoral system should be RETAINED or REPLACED by a system where the number of MPs each party gets reflects the proportion of votes received nation-wide. Commonly known as “Proportional Representation” or “PR”.

We think that MPs who mislead the public should be held accountable and required to step down. We also want the Government to set up an independent 'fact check' committee. We feel that we need to restore honour and integrity into politics.

We think the people of Britain should have the chance to re-elect when parties break their manifesto promises.

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Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department is taking to secure contributions towards the costs of building safety remediation from cladding manufacturers.

Answered by Alex Norris - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

This Government agrees that manufacturers should be held to account for their role in the Grenfell tragedy. The Prime Minister has committed to writing to all companies, including product manufacturers, found by the Inquiry to have been part of these horrific failings, as the first step to stopping them being awarded government contracts. This process is being led by the Minister for the Cabinet Office. Initial letters have now been sent to all 49 organisations named in the report, each of which bear different levels of responsibility for the failings that led to the Grenfell tragedy, including those that are construction product manufacturers.

This Government is also committed to tackling the significant issues in relation to construction products identified in the Grenfell Inquiry, and reviews by Dame Judith Hackitt and Paul Morrell and Anneliese Day. We will bring forward proposals for systemwide reform of the construction products regulatory regime to give consumers confidence and underpin supply chains and housing delivery.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Merron on 25 October (HL1778 and HL1779), how the Suicide Prevention Strategy envisages improving the suicide rate of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities over its five-year period.

Answered by Baroness Merron - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department of Health and Social Care)

The purpose of the strategy was to set a direction for suicide prevention for all organisations to consider (national and local government, researchers and VCSE sectors). The ambitions outlined in the Suicide Prevention Strategy of September 2023 cover five years and include research on and better understanding of national trends and suicide rates in particular groups, including Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people.

A qualitative research project exploring the lived experiences of Roma people in England and Wales, including priorities, needs and access to services, will shortly be starting. This project is led by the Qualitative Research Team, within the Centre for Equalities and Inclusion at the Office for National Statistics, delivered in partnership with Migration Yorkshire, Roma Support Group and the University of Sheffield, and in collaboration with the Department of Health and Social Care, Department for Education and Cabinet Office.

This project will provide insights into how Roma communities’ needs change over their lifetime and identify barriers to accessing services, including for maternal and mental health. Depending on the findings, this research may give us insight into the factors contributing to suicide risk within Roma communities and enable us to develop more targeted prevention strategies that resonate with the Roma community’s unique experiences and challenges, address the unique needs of the young Roma population in England and anticipate how migration and settlement patterns may influence their future healthcare requirements.

More broadly, our Inclusion Health initiative aims to support the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities and other inclusion health groups. This program is specifically designed to address the unique needs of socially excluded groups.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the Answer of 14 October 2024 to Question 7021 on Treasury: Official Cars, whether the Car Service in her Department is provided to senior officials for departmental travel.

Answered by James Murray - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

HM Treasury has one departmental car that is available to the Chief Secretary or other junior ministers for official travel. HM Treasury follows the guidance set out by the Propriety and Ethics team in the Cabinet Office on use by Senior Officials.

Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what progress he has made on appointing a Ministerial lead for the UK's seat on the Open Government Partnership Steering Committee.

Answered by Feryal Clark - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

The responsibility for the interrelated areas of open government and open data is currently held in the Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO). However, as part of a Machinery of Government change to create the Digital Centre of Government, CDDO has moved into the Department for Science Innovation and Technology (DSIT) from the Cabinet Office. The ongoing work to design the digital centre will assess the suitability of the current arrangement and make recommendations for the future responsibility for the delivery of the principles of Open Government and the National Action Plan for Open Government and inform the Ministerial lead for the UK’s seat on the Open Government Partnership Steering Committee.

Question to the Leader of the House:

To ask the Leader of the House, with reference to the oral contribution of Leader of the House of Commons on 10 October 2024, Official Report, column 475, for what reason a response from a Minister was not provided before 21 October; and whether a response will be provided before any future decision is made relating to the government's independent adviser on political violence and disruption.

Answered by Lucy Powell - Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons

Following the Business Question on the 10th October 2024, I wrote to the Cabinet Office and my office further contacted the Home Office to raise this matter. Where Members raise issues with Ministers, it is important that they receive full and timely responses. I understand that the Home Office has now responded to the Hon. Member.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, for what reason it is the Government's to lift the Civil Service headcount cap that had been announced by the previous administration; and if she will make an estimate of the cost to the public purse of this policy.

Answered by Darren Jones - Chief Secretary to the Treasury

This government moved away from capping civil service headcount to an approach that ensures departments consider overall value for money in resourcing decisions.

To this end it has introduced of a 2% target for reduction to administration budgets in financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26 and a stop to all non-essential spending on consultancy, with an aim to halve spending in future years.
This government has also committed to developing a long-term strategic plan for a more efficient and effective civil service, including bold options to improve skills, harness digital technology and drive better outcomes for public services.

Decisions relating to the cost of the civil service workforce will be considered as part of the Spending Review process. HM Treasury and the Cabinet Office will work closely with departments to develop plans that achieve the government’s reform objectives for the civil service.

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what his policy is on allowing people with financial interests in the private healthcare sector to be (a) employed in and (b) non executive directors at his Department.

Answered by Karin Smyth - Minister of State (Department of Health and Social Care)

All Department employees are subject to the Department’s policy on the Declaration and Management of Outside Interests. The policy is in alignment with the model Cabinet Office guidance in this area for Civil Servants, published on the GOV.UK website, which sets out how staff can identify when a perceived, potential, or actual conflict of interest arises, and what action must be taken in those circumstances. This includes a discussion between the employee and manager to determine whether there is a conflict of interest in the first instance, or perceived conflict of interest, such that the employee should be excluded from the activity, or that the employee may continue with the activity but must implement actions to mitigate any risk. Further information is available at the following link:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/declaration-and-management-of-outside-interests-in-the-civil-service/declaration-and-management-of-outside-interests-in-the-civil-service

Prior to appointment and throughout their term of office, non-executive board members are required to declare all relevant interests, and for any areas where a potential conflict of interest could be seen to arise, mitigations are required to be put in place and approved by the Department. Declarations of interest are published each year in the Register of Interests in the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts.

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