Government Policy on Health Debate
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Lord Markham
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Government Policy on Health
Lord Markham Excerpts(3 days, 3 hours ago)
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Baroness Merron (Lab)
I cannot answer that, I am afraid. I would be very happy to look at it for the noble Baroness.
Lord Markham (Con)
Although I understand completely the role of advisers—obviously Alan Milburn is a very reputable adviser—where is the line? My concern is that, when an adviser has a pass, has been in meetings without Ministers present and has perhaps directed civil servants in those meetings, a line has perhaps been crossed. I would welcome assurances from the Minister that this has not occurred and that there have not been any meetings where Alan Milburn has been there without Ministers—in effect, directing policy with no formal role.
Baroness Merron (Lab)
The right honourable Alan Milburn has not been directing policy; he also has no pass. I hope that is helpful to the noble Lord.