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1 Mar 2011 : Column WA287
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA287
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA287
Tuesday 1 March 2011
Abdelbaset al-Megrahi
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will make public the letter from the chief executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) mentioned in the Cabinet Secretary's Review of papers relating to the release of Abdelbaset Al-Megrahi which said medical tests had revealed Al-Megrahi had terminal prostate cancer and that "his fellow prisoners have commented on his significant decline in the past"; what was the date of that letter; what the "commitment to a full read-out from the UK" provided to the SPS chief executive consisted of; and what documentation the Chief Medical Officer of the SPS relayed to them on Al-Megrahi's prognosis.[HL6855]
Lord Taylor of Holbeach: The report and additional documents taken together with the extensive set of documentation already in the public domain provide as full and public an explanation of the circumstances surrounding the decision by the Scottish Government to release Mr Megrahi as possible. I refer the noble Lord to paragraphs 39, 40 and 44 of the Cabinet Secretary's report which make clear the reasons why some information is not being released.
Africa: Post-election Violence
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they support the African Union's request for a delay to the International Criminal Court's trial of those accused of organising post-election violence. [HL7054]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): We note that the African Union passed a resolution at its summit in January calling for a deferral, under Article 16 of the Rome Statute, of the ICC's investigation into the post-election violence that took place in Kenya in 2007-08. A deferral under Article 16 can be adopted only in exceptional circumstances, by a resolution of the United Nations Security Council acting under Chapter VII of the charter of the United Nations on the basis of a threat to international peace and security. We see no basis at this time for any proceedings in the Security Council under Article 16.
Airports: Birmingham
Question
Asked by Lord Hunt of Kings Heath
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the potential benefits for the West Midlands economy of the proposed expansion of Birmingham Airport.[HL6534]
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Earl Attlee: We recognise the vital contribution that regional airports make to local economies. It is our intention to develop an aviation policy framework that seeks to create the right conditions for regional airports to flourish. Plans for the expansion of Birmingham Airport are a matter for the airport operator.
This Government have not therefore made any assessment of the potential benefits of proposed expansion of Birmingham Airport for the West Midlands economy.
Algeria
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the plans of the Government of Algeria to relax the country's emergency laws. [HL6902]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The Algerian authorities' stated intention to remove the state of emergency legislation, in place since the difficult period of the 1990s, is a positive move. We support efforts to encourage freedom of expression and association and will continue to monitor efforts by the Government of Algeria in this.
Animal Experimentation
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what measures they are taking to minimise and eventually eradicate the use of primates in animal experiments.[HL7067]
The Minister of State, Home Office (Baroness Neville-Jones): The Government recognise that many people have a particular concern about the use of non-human primates. Under the terms of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 they, together with some other species, are given special protection and can be used only where animals of no other species are suitable.
Research using non-human primates is a small but currently vital part of work to protect and improve human lives. For instance, the United Kingdom uses small numbers of non-human primates for the development and testing of vaccines against some of the world's largest killers such as malaria, HIV/AIDS and TB, and the potential future treatment of degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The development of new drugs and medical and veterinary technologies is still dependent on the information and insights derived from the well designed, properly conducted and carefully regulated use of animals (including non-human primates) for testing and research.
Some advocate a "zero option" strategy, where the goal is to stop using non-human primates altogether as fast as possible. The majority of scientific opinion
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Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to review Section 24 of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986.[HL7068]
The Minister of State, Home Office (Baroness Neville-Jones): We are planning to include a review of Section 24 of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in due course as part of a public consultation on the transposition of European Directive 210/63/EU on the protection of animals used in scientific research.
Armed Forces: Allowances
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they sought the view of the Armed Forces Pay Review Body before the recent changes in the Continuity of Education Allowance and other allowances for the Armed Forces were announced; and, if so, what that view was.[HL7109]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence (Lord Astor of Hever): No. The work to review and change the Armed Forces allowances package was, correctly, departmentally led and the Armed Forces Pay Review Body (AFPRB) was not consulted prior to the announcement.
The vast majority of the allowances that were changed (including continuity of education allowance) are not reviewed by the AFPRB, but it does have responsibility to recommend rates in the cases of recruitment and retention allowance (London), commitment bonuses, and the reserve bands of specialist pay. As part of the 2011-12 pay review round we will be providing written evidence to the AFPRB about the new rates and our justification for them, to inform future recommendations. The AFPRB retains a fundamental independent role in ensuring that the remuneration package of service personnel is sufficient to recruit and retain the right people.
Armed Forces: Women
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government how many female soldiers who are deployed to Afghanistan are trained to interact with the local female population.[HL7117]
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The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence (Lord Astor of Hever): Afghan cultural awareness training is provided to all UK personnel deploying to Afghanistan, which includes cultural differences when interacting with Afghan women. In addition, four female soldiers in Afghanistan are currently assigned to work in female engagement teams, which focus on interaction with the local Afghan female population, fostering relationships and gaining their trust and support.
Arms Trade Treaty
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Governments of the United States and China on the inclusion of small arms ammunition in the arms trade treaty.[HL6678]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The UK is committed to securing a robust and effective arms trade treaty and to continuing to play a lead role in the UN process. The UK regularly discusses an arms trade treaty both with supportive states and those that still have concerns about the treaty. It would not be appropriate for me to supply further details of these discussions due to their confidential nature and the early stage of the negotiations.
Asked by Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Governments of (a) China, (b) Russia, and (c) India in preparation for the next preparatory negotiations on the arms trade treaty.[HL6685]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The UK is committed to securing a robust and effective arms trade treaty and to continuing to play a lead role in the UN process. The UK regularly discusses an arms trade treaty both with supportive states and those that still have concerns about the treaty. It would not be appropriate for me to supply further details of these discussions due to their confidential nature and the early stage of the negotiations.
Asked by Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale
To ask Her Majesty's Government why they do not support the inclusion of dual-use goods in the scope of the arms trade treaty.[HL6687]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The UK is committed to securing a robust and effective arms trade treaty and to continuing to play a lead role in the UN process. Negotiations are ongoing in the run up to the critical UN negotiating conference in 2012. It is therefore not appropriate for me to speculate about the possible scope, parameters or implementation and application of an arms trade treaty at this time. We maintain a dialogue with the parliamentary committees on arms export controls on the arms trade treaty, most recently when my honourable friend Alistair Burt gave oral evidence to the committees on 24 January 2011.
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Asked by Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of provisions needed in the Arms Trade Treaty for ensuring state parties have the resources and technical assistance needed to implement it.[HL6688]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The UK is committed to securing a robust and effective arms trade treaty and to continuing to play a lead role in the UN process. Negotiations are ongoing in the run up to the critical UN negotiating conference in 2012. It is therefore not appropriate for me to speculate about the possible scope, parameters or implementation and application of an arms trade treaty at this time. We maintain a dialogue with the parliamentary committees on arms export controls on the arms trade treaty, most recently when my honourable friend Alistair Burt gave oral evidence to the committees on 24 January 2011.
Asked by Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of provisions needed in the arms trade treaty for settling disputes between states over suspected cases of non-compliance.[HL6689]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The UK is committed to securing a robust and effective arms trade treaty and to continuing to play a lead role in the UN process. Negotiations are ongoing in the run up to the critical UN negotiating conference in 2012. It is therefore not appropriate for me to speculate about the possible scope, parameters or implementation and application of an arms trade treaty at this time. We maintain a dialogue with the parliamentary committees on arms export controls on the arms trade treaty, most recently when my honourable friend Alistair Burt gave oral evidence to the committees on 24 January 2011.
Azerbaijan
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether a letter of commiseration has been sent to the Government of Azerbaijan to mark the anniversary of the Khojaly tragedy.[HL6624]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The Government are deeply aware of the incidents that took place during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, including the many thousands of people displaced from their homes and the terrible human cost to both sides. We did not send a letter of commiseration to the Government of Azerbaijan. We extend our deepest sympathies to all the families of the victims and give our assurance that their suffering will not be forgotten. We call on all sides to redouble their efforts to reach a negotiated settlement and ensure such events are not repeated in the future.
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Bahrain
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Howell of Guildford on 9 February (HL5764), when they last received a report of torture being used; and whether they will make representations to the Government of Bahrain about Dr Al Singace's wheelchair.[HL6836]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The Government receive regular reports on the human rights situation in Bahrain, including the Amnesty International report of 11 February 2011. We continue to make representations at the highest level with the Government of Bahrain. During my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary's visit to Bahrain on 10 February 2011, he raised the importance of transparency with the Foreign Minister. We will continue to monitor the situation, and to underline the importance of investigating fully and transparently allegations of abuse of detainees.
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the Foreign Secretary has raised with the Government of Bahrain the case of the British citizen, Jaffar Al Hasabi, who was arrested and tortured upon his arrival at Bahrain airport on 16 August 2010 after attending a meeting in 1 The Abbey Garden, London, on human rights and the rule of law in Bahrain. [HL6977]
Lord Howell of Guildford: During a visit to Bahrain on 10 February 2011 my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary met the Bahraini Foreign Minister, Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, and raised Jaffar Al Hasabi's complaint that he had been abused in detention facilities. The Foreign Minister undertook to investigate this matter. We are closely monitoring the situation and will follow this up with the Minister.
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Howell of Guildford on 24 January (WA 84), what assessment they have made of whether Bahrain has undertaken to ease media restrictions and allow more personal freedoms; and whether they will make representations to the government of Bahrain to release Dr Al Singace. [HL6996]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We have stressed the need for the Government of Bahrain to respect their citizens' right to freedom of expression. We continue to stress to the Government of Bahrain the importance of following due process in the trial of Dr Al Singace, and the other 24 accused of terrorism offences, currently before the Bahraini courts. And we continue to press the Government of Bahrain to investigate fully and
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Bat Khurts
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government when Mr Bat Khurts, chief executive of Mongolia's National Security Council, was detained at Heathrow airport; on what grounds he was detained; whether he was visiting the United Kingdom by invitation of the Government; whether he was due to meet the Prime Minister's National Security Adviser; and which other Government officials he was scheduled to meet during his visit to the United Kingdom. [HL7056]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): Mr Khurts was arrested at Heathrow Airport on 17 September 2010 under the terms of a European Arrest Warrant issued by a German court, on charges of kidnap and false imprisonment. Mr Khurts was neither invited to the UK, nor granted any appointments with Ministers or officials.
BBC: World Service
Questions
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether, following developments in Egypt, they will ask BBC Arabic in the BBC World Service to reconsider their decision to close radio operations in Cairo, to reduce live news output on BBC Arabic television and radio, and to discontinue 40 journalistic posts. [HL6596]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): Under the broadcasting agreement between the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) World Service, the BBC World Service has managerial integrity and independence, except in the case of opening or closing a language service.
Therefore, for those language services which will continue, it is for the BBC World Service to decide how it will allocate the funds within its budget.
However, given the current circumstances, we stay in close contact with the BBC World Service on the question of the Arabic service. We recognise the valuable work that the Arabic service has done in covering the recent events, and are in discussion with the BBC World Service about whether there are also ways the service in Arabic can be supported over the next few months.
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they discussed with the BBC World Service English Language Service its decision to downgrade its sponsored reporter in Beirut to a freelance role. [HL6597]
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Lord Howell of Guildford: Under the broadcasting agreement between the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) World Service, the BBC World Service has managerial integrity and independence, except in the case of opening or closing a language service.
This decision was therefore made by the BBC World Service.
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they discussed with the BBC World Service its decision to downgrade its sponsored regional reporter in Kazakhstan to a freelance role.[HL6598]
Lord Howell of Guildford: Under the broadcasting agreement between the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) World Service, the BBC World Service has managerial integrity and independence, except in the case of opening or closing a language service.
This decision was therefore made by the BBC World Service.
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they discussed with the BBC World Service its reasons for reducing short wave and medium wave radio distribution in Azeri, Mandarin Chinese, Russian, Spanish for Cuba, Turkish, Vietnamese and Ukrainian; and, if so, whether the justification given by the BBC World Service was because those services can be accessed online or by mobile telephones.[HL6599]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The reduction of these radio services are platform changes rather than language service closures. As such, they fall under the managerial integrity and independence of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) World Service, as set out in the broadcasting agreement between the BBC World Service and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
In all the cases mentioned, the BBC World Service will continue to reach its audiences through its online services and, where applicable, through mobile and television programmes.
Channel Islands
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what was the value of (a) exports from the United Kingdom to the Channel Islands, and (b) imports from the Channel Islands to the United Kingdom, in each of the past 10 years for which figures are available; and how much was imported and exported in each main category.[HL6905]
The Commercial Secretary to the Treasury (Lord Sassoon): HM Revenue and Customs keeps live data relating to exports and imports only for a period of three calendar years. The information for the years 2008-10 is set out below:
UK exports to the Channel Islands
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UK imports from the Channel Islands
Goods exported from and imported into the UK must be declared using one of the commodity codes used to identify goods for import and export purposes listed in the 97 chapters of the UK's integrated tariff.
The main categories of goods exported and imported to/from the Channel Islands during the period 2008-10 are as follows:
UK exports to the Channel Islands
Mineral fuels, mineral oils and products of their distillation (Chapter 27)-£99,477,110.99
Ships, boats and floating structures (Chapter 89)-£69,127,125.06
Beverages, spirits and vinegar (Chapter 22)- £30,849,724.23
Works of art, collectors' pieces and antiques (Chapter 97)-£22,688,330,37
Ships, boats and floating structures (Chapter 89)-£91,316,804.83
Mineral fuels, mineral oils and products of their distillation (Chapter 27)-£51,981,925.38
Beverages, spirits and vinegar (Chapter 22)- £32,108,675.09
Works of art, collectors' pieces and antiques (Chapter 97)-£13,367,589.04
Ships, boats and floating structures (Chapter 89)-£50,856,185.37
Mineral fuels, mineral oils and products of their distillation (Chapter 27)-£35,133,005.19
Beverages, spirits and vinegar (Chapter 22)- £33,136,828.29
Works of art, collectors' pieces and antiques (Chapter 97)-£15,856,092.72
UK imports from the Channel Islands
Optical, photographic etc (Chapter 90)- £61,309,367.04
Vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling stock (Chapter 87)-£50,894,186.11
Ships, boats and floating structures (Chapter 89)-£31,102,148.01
Nickel and articles thereof (Chapter 75 of the UK Tariff)-£30,234,380.45
Optical, photographic etc (Chapter 90)- £69,181,877.46
Vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling stock (Chapter 87)-£57,702,648.76
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Aircraft, spacecraft and parts thereof (Chapter 88)-£46,003,597.96
Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof (Chapter 85)-£29,910,976.45
Optical, photographic etc (Chapter 90 of the UK Tariff)-£77,017,831.31
Vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling stock (Chapter 87)-£61,530,741.77
Electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof (Chapter 85)-£30,914,653.82
Aircraft, spacecraft and parts thereof (Chapter 88)-£28,860,233.42
Charities: Funding
Question
Asked by Lord Stoddart of Swindon
To ask Her Majesty's Government, in the light of figures published in theThe Times on 8 February stating that charities receive more money from public funds than from voluntary contributions, at what stage charities receiving public funds are no longer considered charities by the Charity Commission. [HL7005]
Baroness Warsi: The information requested falls within the responsibility of the Charity Commission for England and Wales. I have asked the commission to reply.
Letter from Sam Younger dated February 2011
As the Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, I have been asked to respond to your written Parliamentary Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government, in the light of figures published in The Times on 8 February stating that charities receive more money from public funds than from voluntary contributions, at what stage charities receiving public funds are no longer considered charities by the Charity Commission. [HL7005].
Charities receive their income from a wide variety of sources, including public funds, but the source of their funding is not what determines their charitable status. The Charity Commission recognises a charity as an independent organisation that is established exclusively for charitable purposes and for the public benefit, as defined in law, in particular the Charities Act 2006.
I hope this information is helpful.
China
Question
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of China about the health and safety of the blind Chinese human rights activist, Chen Guangchen, following reports that he and his wife have been
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The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): During his recent meeting in January with Chinese Vice-Premier Li Keqiang, my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary expressed his concern about Chen's treatment. My honourable friend Jeremy Browne, Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister with responsibility for the Far East, also raised the case with the head of the Chinese delegation to the UK-China Human Rights Dialogue on 13 January 2011.
We remain concerned about the treatment of Chen Guangcheng and his family, whose detention appears to violate Chinese laws. We continue to monitor his situation and are working with EU partners to maintain the profile of his case.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the statement by the Minister of State for Health, Paul Burstow, on 2 February (Official Report, Commons, col. 327) that the World Health Organisation (WHO) described myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) and that this was the convention followed by the Department, in light of the fact that the WHO International Classification of Diseases 10 lists ME as a neurological disease with post viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS) under G93.3 and CFS as a mental health condition under F48.0 and that the latter specifically excludes PVFS, whether they will adhere to that classification.[HL7080]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Earl Howe): The department will continue to use the composite term chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) for this condition, or spectrum of disease, as suggested by the Chief Medical Officer in his 2002 report. We recognise the condition as neurological in nature.
Circuses: Animals
Question
Asked by Lord Kennedy of Southwark
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Henley on 14 February (WA 105), when they expect a final decision to be made on the case for banning wild animals performing in circuses.[HL7160]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Lord Henley): I understand that the issue of the use of wild animals in circuses is very important to the public-there were
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Consumer Protection
Question
Asked by Lord Kennedy of Southwark
To ask Her Majesty's Government when they will set out their plans, published in The Coalition: Our Programme For Government, to introduce stronger consumer protections, including measures to end unfair bank and financial transaction charges. [HL7033]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (Baroness Wilcox): The Government committed in the coalition agreement to introduce stronger consumer protections including measures to end unfair bank and financial transaction charges. We have been considering how best to take forward this commitment and believe that it should be done in the context of a wider strategic approach to strengthening and streamlining consumer protections and advocacy. This issue is therefore being addressed as part of our Consumer Credit and Personal Insolvency Review.
The call for evidence on this review has now closed. We have received a considerable number of responses which we are now considering. If the evidence comes out in favour of action, we will not hesitate to act to protect the interests of consumers. We will come forward with specific proposals in spring 2011.
Criminal Justice: Compensation
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord McNally on 27 January (WA 186), whether Colin Stagg was compensated under the discretionary scheme which was abolished in 2006 or under another scheme or procedure; and, if he was not compensated, why not.[HL7147]
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord McNally on 27 January (WA 186), whether Ivan Fergus was compensated under the discretionary scheme which was abolished in 2006 or under another scheme or procedure; and, if he was not compensated, why not.[HL7148]
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord McNally on 27 January (WA 186), whether Michelle and Lisa Taylor were compensated under the discretionary scheme which was abolished in 2006 or under another scheme or procedure; and, if they were not compensated, why not.[HL7149]
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord McNally on 27 January (WA 186), whether John and Ronnie Actie were
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The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord McNally): As I explained in my Answer of 27 January (Official Report, col. WA186), it is the policy of the Ministry of Justice not to comment on individual applications for compensation unless the applicant has already put the matter into the public domain. The department's policy has been endorsed by the Information Commissioner. A copy of a decision by the Information Commissioner relating to a request for disclosure of similar information under the Freedom of Information Act has previously been placed in the library.
For that reason, in the cases of John and Ronnie Actie, Michelle and Lisa Taylor and Ivan Fergus I can neither confirm nor deny whether an application for compensation was received.
In the case of Colin Stagg I am aware that he made the fact of his award of compensation under the now abolished discretionary compensation scheme known to the media through a number of interviews. The discretionary compensation scheme was abolished for new applications on 19 April 2006 by the then Home Secretary.
Cyclists: Safety
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to improve the safety of pedal cyclists, in the light of statistics showing that pedal cyclist casualties increased by three per cent last year whereas casualties for car and motorcycle users and pedestrians fell by between three and eight per cent.[HL6755]
Earl Attlee: The unwelcome increase in pedal cyclist casualties must be set in the context of increasing levels of cycling-up 12 per cent between 2005 and 2009-which is to be welcomed.
There are a number of current initiatives to improve cycle safety. These include promoting bikeability cycle training and the Highway Code, and specifically, the use of protective equipment such as high visibility clothing; as well as new measures on lorry mirrors to improve the visibility of cyclists and pedestrians. There are a range of measures which local authorities can take on the design of safer road infrastructure, including effective cycle-specific measures such as cycle routes and better traffic management. These will depend on local decisions and need to reflect local priorities. The new Local Sustainable Transport Fund of £560 million over the next four years will be available to support such measures. All this is against a background of encouraging more people to cycle while minimising the risks of cycling. The Government's broader plans to improve road safety will be set out in a strategic framework to be published by this April.
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Cyprus
Questions
Asked by Lord Maginnis of Drumglass
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by Lord Howell of Guildford on 13 January (Official Report, col. 1573), why they consider that a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation in Cyprus would prevent ethnic violence there similar to that at Christmas 1963.[HL6586]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The Government have not made any such considerations. The bicommunal concept was agreed within the 12 February 1977 high level agreement between the then leaders of the two communities under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. As I said on 13 January 2011, we are committed to supporting the UN's efforts to achieve a settlement based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality as defined by the relevant Security Council resolutions. We want to see a settlement agreed and peacefully implemented by Cypriots for Cypriots to deliver a stable, prosperous and united Cyprus, operating as a valued partner within the EU.
Asked by Lord Maginnis of Drumglass
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by Lord Howell of Guildford on 13 January (Official Report, col. 1573), why they consider that a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation in Cyprus would prevent the killing of Turkish Cypriots in a manner similar to that by EOKA-B under the leadership of Nikos Sampson.[HL6587]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The Government have not made any such considerations. The bicommunal concept was agreed within the 12 February 1977 high level agreement between the then leaders of the two communities under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. As I said on 13 January 2011, we are committed to supporting the UN's efforts to achieve a settlement based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality as defined by the relevant Security Council resolutions. We want to see a settlement agreed and peacefully implemented by Cypriots for Cypriots to deliver a stable, prosperous and united Cyprus, operating as a valued partner within the EU.
Asked by Lord Maginnis of Drumglass
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by Lord Howell of Guildford on 13 January (Official Report, col. 1573), why they consider that a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation in Cyprus would prevent the social separation of minority Turkish Cypriots similar to that between 1963 and 1974.[HL6588]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The Government have not made any such considerations. The bicommunal concept was agreed within the 12 February 1977 high level agreement between the then leaders of the two communities under the auspices of the UN Secretary
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Democratic Republic of Congo
Question
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of evidence presented to them of alleged abuses of human rights, crimes against humanity and crimes of genocide committed in the Democratic Republic of Congo between 1993 and 2003 by all parties to the conflict; and in what circumstances they would submit such evidence to the United Nations Security Council to seek to bring those responsible to justice.[HL6595]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The UN Mapping Report contains a number of important recommendations. It highlights the need to tackle impunity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in a comprehensive manner to protect further generations from suffering. The Government of DRC have expressed a desire to take forward the findings of this report through the formation of a mixed chamber. They are currently working on draft legislation and we look forward to following up with them on their proposals. The UN Security Council is not due to discuss the mapping report.
Egypt
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have received representations from British or foreign sources about the situation in Egypt; and what responses they have given.[HL6608]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): We have received letters and phone calls from members of the public and international human rights organisations, who have raised concerns about the ongoing political unrest in Egypt, specifically incidents of deadly violence and other human rights issues, such as restrictions on freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest in Egypt. My right honourable friend the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary have also spoken to the Egyptian authorities, the US Administration, European partners and Governments in the region.
As the Foreign Secretary said in his Statement of 3 February 2011, we deplore the violence in Egypt and have called on the authorities to avoid repression. We also urged the Egyptian Government urgently to lift restrictions on internet and mobile phone services, which only fuelled the anger of demonstrators. As the Prime Minister made clear in his Statement to Parliament
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To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their response to proposals in Egypt for a new constitution providing inter alia for an independent judiciary and free elections, supervised by a government of national unity.[HL6865]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We support a peaceful transition and political reform that meets the aspirations of the Egyptian people. This requires constitutional changes to open the way for free and fair presidential and parliamentary elections, with broad lists of candidates, conducted under judicial supervision and international monitors.
As my right honourable friend the Prime Minister said on 11 February 2011 following the resignation of President Mubarak, this is a precious moment of opportunity to establish a Government who can put in place the building blocks of a truly open, free and democratic society. Those who now run Egypt have a duty to reflect the wishes of the Egyptian people and there must be a move to civilian and democratic rule as part of this transition. On 14 February 2011 my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary called for a clear timetable for free and fair parliamentary and presidential elections and a genuinely inclusive dialogue about the country's future.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the detention of international and Egyptian journalists in Egypt since 25 January. [HL6899]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We were deeply concerned at reports of journalists being harassed and detained during the recent political unrest in Egypt. This is unacceptable and damages Egypt's credibility. We have expressed our strong concerns both publicly and privately with the Egyptian authorities. For example, on 6 February 2011, my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary raised this issue with Egyptian Foreign Minister, Ahmed Aboul Gheit who assured him that many of those who had been detained had been released.
We have welcomed the Egyptian Government's commitment to release all detained protestors, not to arrest anyone for expressing ideas and opinions and to stop arresting and harassing journalists, foreigners and members of the opposition. It is important that the Egyptian authorities continue to honour these commitments and that they are implemented immediately.
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will make representations to the Government of Egypt about compensation for Mr Robert Tait, a British citizen who was arrested in Egypt and held for 28 hours before being deported.[HL6927]
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Lord Howell of Guildford: Neither the Foreign and Commonwealth Office nor our embassy in Cairo has received a request from Mr Tait for consular assistance. In order to request compensation, Mr Tait would need to approach the Egyptian authorities directly.
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will make representations to the Government of Egypt about those protesters arrested in Egypt who are alleged to have been tortured.[HL6928]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We have expressed our strong concerns about the mistreatment of protesters, journalists and human rights defenders, to the Egyptian authorities. On 6 February 2011, my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary raised reports of mistreatment with Egyptian Foreign Minister, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, who agreed that this was unacceptable. He assured the Foreign Secretary that many of those who had been detained had been released. On 7 February 2011, my right honourable friend the Prime Minister spoke to the then-Vice President of Egypt, Omar Suleiman, and called for the release of all non-activists from prison. The then-Vice President gave his assurances that nobody was now in detention.
We continue to urge the Egyptian authorities to replace the state of emergency with anti-terrorism legislation that is compliant with international standards on human rights and fundamental freedoms. We also encourage Egypt to ratify the optional protocol on the Convention Against Torture and to extend an invitation to the UN special rapporteur on torture.
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will freeze the assets of the Mubarak family that are within their jurisdiction, including in the Crown dependencies, until it can be determined whether any of them belong to the state of Egypt.[HL6985]
The Commercial Secretary to the Treasury (Lord Sassoon): The Government cannot comment on individual possible asset freezing cases for well established operational reasons.
The Government have received a request from the Egyptian Government to freeze the assets of several former Egyptian officials. We are, of course, co-operating with this request, continuing to work with EU and international partners as we did in the case of Tunisia. If there is any evidence of illegality or misuse of state assets we will take firm and prompt action, and request that the Crown dependencies do the same.
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assistance they (a) have offered, and (b) plan to offer, to the Government of Egypt to improve security in museums following the recent theft of artefacts from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.[HL7108]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We have received no further reports of problems with security at the Egyptian Museum since the Egyptian army took over responsibility for guarding it and its contents on 28 January 2011.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA304
We understand that the Egyptian Museum has recently reopened for visitors.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they have taken to encourage Crown dependencies and British overseas territories to freeze the assets of the Mubarak family.[HL7137]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We can confirm that the Egyptian authorities have provided us and other countries with a list of names in relation to freezing the assets of several members of the former regime. However, it is our policy not to disclose the names of such people to avoid assets being dissipated. If evidence of illegality or misuse of state assets is shown to exist and provided to us we will take firm and prompt action.
The UK's Crown dependencies and overseas territories are committed to meeting international standards and playing a responsible role in international financial markets. We will of course encourage these territories to take action in response to any such Egyptian requests.
Embryology
Questions
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Wilcox on 8 February (WA 45), which meetings between ministers at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department of Health involved discussion on (a) embryo research, (b) the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, and (c) stem cell research; on what date each meeting took place; with which ministers; whether officials were present; and whether a note of each meeting was made.[HL7106]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (Baroness Wilcox): Ministers from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department of Health have not had any meetings for which the specific topic of discussion for the meeting was noted as embryo research, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, or stem cell research.
A search of the notes of meetings between Ministers in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department of Health does not record any discussion of those specific topics, although they note broader discussions about regulation and research, including the Academy of Medical Sciences review on "A new pathway for the regulation and governance of health research".
As previously stated, Ministers from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department of Health speak regularly about a range of public health issues, including informal discussions of which no note may be taken.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA305
Asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether persons opposed to (a) embryonic and (b) embryo research are eligible for appointment to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority; and, if not, whether they will amend the legislation to permit that. [HL7107]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Earl Howe): Applications for membership of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority are welcomed from candidates of all beliefs. However, all potential members must be prepared to accept the fundamental principles behind the Authority's existence.
Members also need to recognise the principles contained in the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990, as amended, and associated regulations.
EU: Education Materials
Question
Asked by Lord Stoddart of Swindon
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Howell of Guildford on 7 February (WA 15-16), whether the European Commission has been informed that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office does not regard the expenditure on diaries as a good use of money; and whether they will urge the Commission not to repeat the issue of such diaries in 2012 and subsequent years.[HL7008]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): We have shared our Written Answer to the noble Lord of 7 February 2011 (Official Report, cols. WA 15-16) with the European Commission Permanent Representation in the United Kingdom, and noted in addition our view that they should reconsider the future publication of the diaries in the current economic climate.
EU: Israel Association Agreement
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they are having with other European member states about the terms of the European Union-Israel Association Agreement.[HL6729]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The UK has regular discussions with it's EU partners on a number of issues related to the Middle East peace process (MEPP) including the European Union Israel Association Agreement.
The EU has made clear that any upgrade of this agreement must be linked to progress on the MEPP. We continue to support this view and to underline this point in discussions with EU partners.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA306
EU: Official Visits
Question
Asked by Lord Stoddart of Swindon
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the three-day visit to Uruguay by 75 Members of the European Parliament at a cost of £1.2 million to European Union taxpayers. [HL7007]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): We understand that a visit by some Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to Uruguay has been planned for May, and that details are not yet confirmed. We believe that EU institutions should think very carefully about all expenditure in line with good practice and with regard to the interests of taxpayers who finance their spending.
Falkland Islands: Landmines
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government which minefields in the Falkland Islands are subject to clearance operations; how many mines have been cleared in each; and of what type.[HL6633]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence (Lord Astor of Hever): Four minefields at Goose Green, Fox Bay, Sapper Hill and Surf Bay were cleared during the 2009-10 pilot project. A total of 1,246 mines were cleared (678 anti-personnel and 568 anti-vehicle).
A further pilot project is due to start in late 2011, seeking to release land on Stanley Common.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what practical co-operation they have received from the Government of Argentina to assist in locating, removing and making safe mines laid by the Argentine forces on the Falkland Islands.[HL7153]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): At the end of the conflict in 1982, Argentine forces gave all minefield records available to them to the UK. They also provided essential information on the type and locations of mines and booby traps during initial mine-clearing by British forces. In 2001 the UK and Argentine Governments agreed to produce a joint feasibility study on Falkland Islands mine clearance. This study was carried out by Cranfield University and published in 2007, and aided the demining project undertaken by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office last year.
Finance: Retail Distribution Review
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they intervene in the pricing of competing businesses; and, if so, in what circumstances.[HL7041]
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA307
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (Baroness Wilcox): The Government have no general power to regulate the prices an enterprise charges for its products. Enterprises must be free to take their own decisions about pricing based on their individual business needs. Ensuring there is effective competition and choice within relevant markets is the best way to encourage enterprises to offer the best quality and range of products and services at the most competitive prices as well as driving business competitiveness, innovation, efficiency and productivity. The UK's independent competition authorities are responsible for promoting effective competition in markets and enforcing competition law; for example, they have power to take action where there is collusion between firms or to address abuse of a dominant market position.
Forestry Commission
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the inclusion of paragraph 1.31 "The Public Forest Estate" in the Department for Communities and Local Government consultation paper Proposals to introduce a Community Right to Buy-assets of community value means that the transfer of Forestry Commission land to local community or civil society groups will usually take place under the provisions of Chapter 4 of Part 4 of the Localism Bill. [HL6886]
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether land that is used for purposes of local amenity or provides other community value, including local woodland, could be included in the list of assets of community value under the provisions of Chapter 4 of Part 4 of the Localism Bill if it (a) forms part of the national forestry estate, (b) is owned by another public body, or (c) is privately owned.[HL6887]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government (Baroness Hanham): The provisions of Chapter 4 of Part 4 of the Localism Bill would apply to a piece of Forestry Commission land if it were listed as an asset of community value by a local authority. The decision to end the consultation on the future of the public forest estate does not affect the proposed powers for a community to nominate parts of the public forest estate to be listed as an asset of community value.
Under Chapter 4 of Part 4 of the Localism Bill, land may be included on a local authority's list of assets of community value in response to a community nomination if it:
is in the authority's area, andis of community value.We are currently consulting on how land of community value will be defined in regulations and what should be excluded from this definition.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA308
Gaza
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the authorities in Gaza about allowing the Red Cross to visit Ghilad Shalit.[HL6726]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): I refer my noble friend to my response of 25 January 2011 (Official Report, col. WA138-39).
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the airstrike on a medicine warehouse in Gaza City on 9 February and its compatibility with the Geneva Convention; and what recent representations they have made to the Government of Israel about it.[HL7081]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We do not make assessments of every event that occurs in Gaza and have not done so in this case. However, the UK is concerned in general about reports such as this detailing Israeli military actions in the Gaza strip. Whilst we understand Israel's security concerns-and condemn unequivocally the actions of those militant groups who target rockets at civilian populations in Israel-Israel is bound by international law in the same way as other countries. We both expect and encourage Israel to adhere to its obligations.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made following attacks on 8 and 9 February of Hamas' ability to control other militant groups in Gaza.[HL7082]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We are aware of reports that Hamas has sought to control the activities of militant groups in Gaza. However, we are also aware of reports that Hamas continues to acquire and test a variety of weapons. We have long made it clear that the arming and funding of Hamas, and other Palestinian rejectionist groups, is unacceptable. We condemn the firing of rockets against civilian targets in Israel, whether by Hamas or other extremist groups. What is important is that all sides take every available measure to respect the ceasefire that has endured since the end of Operation Caste Lead-a resumption of hostilities is in no one's interests.
My right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary raised these issues with Prime Minister Netanyahu when he visited Israel in November 2010. I discussed Gaza at length with General Dangot, the Israeli Co-ordinator for Government Activity in the Territories (COGAT), when I visited the region on 16-19 January 2011.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA309
To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their assessment of the level of supplies of medicine in the Gaza Health Ministry and their call for outside actors to help ensure sufficient medicines are sent to the Gaza Strip by the Palestinian Authority. [HL7085]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We do not hold statistics on supplies of medicine to the Ministry of Health in Gaza. We received information from the World Health Organisation in October 2010 that an average of 80 to 100 items of 480 essential drugs were out of stock at any one time. The situation may have since changed. We do not provide any drugs to the Ministry of Health in Gaza.
We have long been clear on the need for Israel to allow access to Gaza for humanitarian relief, including essential medical supplies. We will continue to press these points.
Ghilad Shalit
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with other European Union member states about securing the release of Staff Sergeant Ghilad Shalit.[HL6737]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): I refer my noble friend to the response I gave my noble friend Lady Tonge on 25 January 2011 (Official Report, col. WA 138-39).
Government Departments: Staff
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government, following the recent announcement by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) asking local authorities to publish the names of all those employees earning over £58,000 a year, what bonuses have been paid in the current financial year to senior civil servants in DCLG earning over £58,000; and whether they will publish the names of those staff receiving bonuses, their annual salaries and the amounts they have received in bonuses.[HL6860]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government (Baroness Hanham): Each year the independent Senior Salaries Review Body makes recommendations to the Prime Minister on SCS pay which cover the pay bands, increases to base salary and variable pay in light of economic evidence and movements in the private and wider public sector markets for senior executives. Delivery of in-year performance against objectives is rewarded through non-consolidated variable
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA310
For the current year, individual salary information for senior civil servants in pay bands 2-4 is published on the department's website. The level of disclosure for senior civil servants is to be reviewed in April 2011.
The consultation on the draft Code of Recommended Practice for local authorities on data transparency ends in March 2011. The Department for Communities and Local Government is at the forefront of the transparency agenda, believing that greater freedoms, autonomy and funding flexibility for local councils should be accompanied by greater local accountability.
Asked by Lord Kennedy of Southwark
To ask Her Majesty's Government what has been the total cost (including overheads, staffing and other connected costs) to the public purse of the appointment of the big society adviser.[HL6974]
Baroness Warsi: The government adviser for big society, Lord Wei, has been working on an unpaid basis since 18 May 2010, advising the Government on all aspects of taking forward the big society and driving implementation across government. He is supported by an office within the Cabinet Office. The costs of employing these staff and related IT, travel and subsistence for this period are around £92 000.
Government: Ministerial Visits
Question
Asked by Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean
To ask Her Majesty's Government which secretaries of state have visited Saudi Arabia since taking office in May 2010.[HL7044]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): There have been two visits by Secretaries of State to Saudi Arabia since May 2010. These were by the Secretary of State for Defence, the right honourable Dr Liam Fox on 24-26 September 2010, and the Secretary of State for International Development, the right honourable Andrew Mitchell on 24 and 25 October 2010.
Health: Herbal Practitioners
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what regulations exist to control the activities of herbal practitioners. [HL7119]
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA311
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Earl Howe): Currently practitioners of herbal medicine are not subject to statutory professional regulation.
On 16 February 2011 the Secretary of State issued a Written Ministerial Statement in Parliament, announcing his intention to establish a statutory register of persons authorised to dispense unlicensed herbal medicines.
Health: Vaccines
Question
Asked by Lord Hodgson of Astley Abbotts
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether any of their recommended flu vaccines contain thiomersal. [HL7089]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Earl Howe): None of the trivalent seasonal influenza vaccines available for use in the 2010-11 influenza season contains thiomersal as an added preservative. However, Fluvirin contains traces of thiomersal that are left over from the manufacturing process.
Pandemrix, which protects against the H1N1 influenza strain, contains a small amount of thiomersal.
There is no evidence to suggest that exposure to the small levels of thiomersal contained in these influenza vaccines carries any risks to adults or children.
Higher Education: Overseas Students
Question
Asked by Lord King of West Bromwich
To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their assessment of the number of foreign students who sleep on the street due to their inability to pay for their accommodation; and what steps they are taking to assist them.[HL7073]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government (Baroness Hanham): The department does not collect information specifically on the number of foreign students who sleep on the street. Information on rough sleeping in England has been placed in the Library of the House and is available on the DCLG website: http://www.communities. gov.uk/publications/corporate/statistics/rough sleepingautumn2010 and http://www.communities.gov. uk/documents/statistics/xls/1845849.xls. A new approach to evaluating rough-sleeping levels was introduced in September 2010.
In many areas homelessness charities have outreach teams who help people who sleep rough and are able to offer advice on accommodation and access to services. Embassies may also have a role in helping destitute foreign students.
All areas across England now provide counts or robust estimates, providing a clearer investment in homelessness grant has been maintained, with £400 million
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA312
Independent Monitoring Commission
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what proposals there are to retain the Independent Monitoring Commission.[HL7088]
Lord Shutt of Greetland: The Independent Monitoring Commission (IMC) has played a crucial part in supporting and enabling the historic changes that we have seen in Northern Ireland over the past 20 years. The IMC has acknowledged that its job is nearing completion and agrees that the time is right to bring the commission to an end. The Government are committed to ensuring that the public are kept informed about the threat of Northern Ireland-related terrorism and once we have received and considered the IMC's final report, the British and Irish Governments will do what is necessary to ensure that that need is met.
Iran
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they and the European Union collectively have made representations to the Government of Iran about the execution on 24 January at Evin prison of Jaafar Kazemi and Mohammed Ali Haj-Aqai, of the People's Mojahedin Organisation of Iran, and their alleged torture and trials.[HL6676]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): We are very concerned that the executions of Jafar Kazemi and Mohammed Ali Haj-Aqai were politically motivated. My honourable friend the Minister for the Middle East released a statement on 24 January 2011 condemning their executions, as well as the disturbingly high number of executions to have occurred already in 2011. We continue to call on Iran to release all political prisoners and to protect the rights of its citizens in line with its international obligations and the Iranian constitution.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they are making to the Government of Iran about the arrests of 202 Christians from house-churches in the past six months, of whom 26 remain in custody.[HL6930]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We are very concerned by the harassment of Christians in Iran and by the continued detention of a number of them, including those arrested from house churches. We have raised these concerns with the Iranian authorities on a number
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA313
Iraq
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they are investigating reports that 280 Iraqi detainees are being held at Camp Justice in northern Baghdad, without access to lawyers or to their families, and that they were transferred from Camp Honor prior to an inspection of the latter.[HL6636]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): We are concerned by media reports suggesting that 280 Iraqi detainees are being held at Camp Justice having been transferred from Camp Honor, and we are following up these allegations with the Iraqi authorities. We understand that on 7 February 2011 the Iraqi Parliament voted in favour of forming a special committee to investigate claims about abuses in secret prisons in Baghdad. Our embassy in Baghdad works closely with the European Union Integrated Rule of Law Mission for Iraq established to strengthen the rule of law and promote a culture of respect for human rights in Iraq.
Israel
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of Israel about the decision by an Israeli court on 19 January to allow the destruction of a further 200 graves in the Mamilla cemetery in Jerusalem to further construction of the Simon Wiesenthal Center's proposed museum.[HL7083]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): We are aware that on 19 January Judge Dov Falk issued a decision to allow the destruction of graves in Mamilla cemetery.
The UK strongly believes that any changes to the fabric of the city in Jerusalem should respect its role as the centre for Muslim, Jewish and Christian faiths.
We continue to monitor the situation closely and will continue to raise the matter with the Israeli Government as necessary.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of Israel about the demolition of homes belonging to shepherds in the village of Khirbet Tana. [HL7084]
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA314
Lord Howell of Guildford: As the noble Baroness is aware, the UK has a strong record of lobbying hard on issues relating to house demolitions and settlement building and we regularly raise our concerns with the Israeli authorities. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will continue to raise these issues with the Israeli Government as necessary.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of Israel about reports in Ha'aretz that the Israeli Defense Force base which was to be built in east Jerusalem will now not be built within the green line but close to the Victoria Augusta Hospital on Mount Scopus.[HL7124]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We are aware of a plan to move the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) Colleges from its current site at Glelilot and have spoken to the Government of Israel about this. However, our understanding is that no decision has been made to relocate the college to Jerusalem and that no plan has been agreed or formally submitted to the relevant planning authority. We will continue to monitor this case and further raise it with the Israeli authorities if and when necessary.
Our view is that all settlement activity in the Occupied Palestinian Territories is illegal and an obstacle to peace. It also threatens to make a two-state solution impossible in the future.
We understand the depth of Israeli security concerns. But, as my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary has consistently stressed, in public and in private, we are very disappointed that Israel has not renewed the freeze on settlement construction. The Foreign Secretary discussed these issues most recently with Israeli Foreign Minister Lieberman on 24 January 2011 in London.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of Israel about the arrest of children, some under the age of 12, from the Silwan area of east Jerusalem. [HL7125]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The UK is concerned about the recent reports by the Israeli human rights non-governmental organisation (NGO) B'Tselem detailing its investigations into the arrests of at least 81 minors from the Silwan area of occupied East Jerusalem over the past year. This includes four children under the age of 12.
The UK, along with EU partners, regularly raises our concerns with the Israeli Government about the application of due process and the treatment of Palestinian detainees, including where children are involved.
As the noble Baroness is aware, the Government have recently approved funding of £12,300 for a project run by the Defence for Children International, which is intended to monitor, defend and promote the rights of Palestinian children, as protected under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), to reduce the number directly and indirectly affected by the Israel-Palestine conflict. The UK also funds No Legal Frontiers, which aims to ensure greater access to justice, through
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA315
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of Israel about the interrogation of children from the Silwan area, some of whom did not have their parents present, who were allegedly subjected to violence, or forced to sign documents written in Hebrew.[HL7126]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The UK is concerned about the recent reports by the Israeli human rights non-governmental organisation (NGO) B'Tselem detailing its investigations into the arrests of at least 81 minors from the Silwan area of occupied East Jerusalem over the past year. This includes four children under the age of 12.
The UK, along with EU partners, regularly raises our concerns with the Israeli Government about the application of due process and the treatment of Palestinian detainees, including where children are involved.
As the noble Baroness is aware, the Government have recently approved funding of £12,300 for a project run by the Defence for Children International, which is intended to monitor, defend and promote the rights of Palestinian children, as protected under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), to reduce the number directly and indirectly affected by the Israel-Palestine conflict. The UK also funds No Legal Frontiers, which aims to ensure greater access to justice, through the publication of Israeli laws and military orders in Hebrew, Arabic and English and to carry out advocacy work. No Legal Frontiers also reports on the functioning of the juvenile military courts and provides legal defence for juvenile defendants.
Israel and Palestine
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Palestinian Authority about the alleged torture of prisoners held by the authority, as documented by the Arab Organisation for Human Rights in the United Kingdom in association with the Middle East Monitor.[HL6724]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): We are aware of the reports by Palestinian and international non-governmental organisations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, alleging torture and mistreatment by the Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces. Most allegations refer to physical abuse and the use of stress positions and other coercive interrogation techniques.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA316
The UK condemns any abuse of human rights. We take allegations of human rights abuses extremely seriously and are studying recent allegations of mistreatment by the PA Security Forces carefully. My honourable friend Alistair Burt raised the issue of human rights abuses when he met Prime Minister Fayyad on his recent visit to the region and asked for a concrete assurance that allegations would be investigated and appropriate actions taken. Prime Minister Fayyad gave this, noting that the PA was addressing this issue not just as a result of international pressure, but because he had a deep personal conviction that human rights should be respected and at the heart of a future Palestinian state.
Currently the UK provides direct budgetary support to the PA as part of our commitment to Prime Minister Fayyad's state building agenda. Part of his agenda is the reform of the Palestinian security forces. A condition of our memorandum of understanding is that the PA must make progress on human rights.
In addition we offer support through the Middle East and North Africa Conflict Pool (MENA CP)-a tri-departmental programme funded jointly by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), the Ministry Of Defence (MoD) and the Department for International Development (DfID). Approximately two thirds of the MENA CP budget for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories focuses on improving the performance of the Palestinian security sector through a combination of support to the United States' Security Co-ordinator (USSC) and to the European policing and rule of law missions in the West Bank. The MENA CP support to the Palestinian Authority security forces is designed to enhance the forces' professionalism and build their capability to improve their performance against internationally recognised human rights standards and accountability.
In recent years, UK programme funds have helped provide technical advice on governance, leadership and human rights issues to the Palestinian security sector, including the Civil Police, Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Defence.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of Israel following the latest report of alleged torture and mistreatment of Palestinian children arrested by the Israeli Defence Force, as documented by Defence for Children International.[HL6725]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We are aware of the allegations documented by Defence for Children International. Our officials in Jerusalem are in regular contact with the Defence for Children International and in close touch on the allegations they have raised.
Our consulate in Jerusalem is also this year funding a project with Defence for Children International-Palestine, to raise awareness of the treatment of minors detained in Israeli prisons.
The UK, along with EU partners, regularly raises our concerns with the Israeli Government about the application of due process and the treatment of Palestinian detainees, including where children are involved.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA317
To ask Her Majesty's Government what requests they have made to the Red Cross in Israel to visit Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons.[HL6727]
Lord Howell of Guildford: Officials from our embassy in Tel Aviv and our consulate in Jerusalem regularly meet with members of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and support the work they do. We encourage the ICRC to do all it can to monitor the situation of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons.
As the noble Baroness is aware, we continue to monitor the human rights situation in the West Bank, including the issue of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons. Where we have concerns, we raise them with the Israeli Government, underlining our view on the need for immediate action to ensure all cases are reviewed by a court in accordance with fair procedures, and that rights, particularly the rights to a fair trial and family visits, are upheld.
We will continue to raise these points with the Government of Israel as necessary. We raise our concerns with the Israeli Government on a regular basis about the application of due process and the treatment of Palestinian detainees.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their assessment of any involvement of United Kingdom firms in the construction of a railway line between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, passing through the West Bank.[HL6898]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We are not aware of any United Kingdom firms being involved in this project.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they are making to the Government of Israel about the destruction of 25 allegedly illegal structures in the Palestinian village of Khirbat Tana.[HL6932]
Lord Howell of Guildford: As my noble Lord is aware, the UK has a strong record of lobbying hard on issues relating to house demolitions and settlement building and we regularly raise our concerns with the Israeli authorities. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will continue to raise these issues with the Israeli Government as necessary.
Justice: Compensation
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord McNally on 27 January (WA 186), how many people who were found not guilty at trial have been compensated since the inception of the Miscarriages of Justice Support Services or the Miscarriages of Justice project. [HL7064]
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord McNally on 27 January (WA 186) how many people whose convictions were
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA318
The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord McNally): Since the abolition of the discretionary miscarriages of justice compensation scheme in April 2006, the only government compensation scheme is the statutory scheme under Section 133 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988. Compensation is paid under that scheme where a conviction is quashed following an out-of-time appeal or following a reference by the Criminal Cases Review Commission to the relevant appeal court on the basis that a new or newly discovered fact shows beyond reasonable doubt that there has been a miscarriage of justice. Section 133 fully meets our international obligations. The Government do not operate a compensation scheme for those who have convictions quashed at in-time appeals or those who are acquitted at trial.
Kenya
Questions
Asked by Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have been involved in discussions between the Government of Kenya and the private security company G4S about privatising some prison services in Kenya.[HL6828]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): As part of its service for British companies, UK Trade and Investment has sought to facilitate discussion between private security company Group 4 Securicor (G4S) and the Government of Kenya by proposing it to the Kenyan Government on behalf of G4S, and offering a platform for such talks to take place. However, neither it nor any other government department has been directly involved in any such discussions between the two parties to date.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assistance the European Union has provided to the pro-International Criminal Court campaign in Kenya. [HL7053]
Lord Howell of Guildford: I refer the noble Lord to my answer of 31 January 2011 (Official Report, col. WA230), which sets out the funding provided by the European Union (EU) in support of the International Criminal Court. We are not aware of any activity directly to fund the pro-International Criminal Court campaign in Kenya, although the EU does provide funding to international advocacy groups, such as the coalition for the International Criminal Court and Parliamentarians for Global Action, which may have undertaken work to support the work of the International Criminal Court in Kenya.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA319
Kosovo
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what safeguards there will be to ensure that €63.9 million granted by the European Union to Kosovo for pre-accession assistance is spent for the purpose intended. [HL6931]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The European Commission Liaison Office in Kosovo has exclusive responsibility for financial and project management, including procurement, for programmes taking place under instrument for pre-accession (IPA) funding.
The European Commission itself has a range of safeguards in place to ensure effective accounting. All IPA programmes and strategic documents are scrutinised by the UK and other EU member states at the IPA Management Committee. Projects themselves are subject to external examination under the European Commission's Results Operational Monitoring system on the basis of five criteria including impact and sustainability.
The IPA funds Kosovo receives are vital in assisting it to implement the reforms necessary to make progress along the path to EU accession.
Kuwait
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Government of Kuwait about human rights in the Kuwaiti penal system; and what assessment they have made of the resignation of Kuwait's interior minister.[HL6900]
Lord Howell of Guildford: In co-operation with the EU, we regularly raise human rights issues with the Kuwaiti authorities. These include discussion of issues such as the stateless Bidoon people of Kuwait, as well as the Kuwaiti penal system. The resignation of the Kuwaiti Interior Minister is an internal matter for the Kuwaiti authorities. However, it does highlight the position of the elected Parliament in Kuwait and shows that there is a process of accountability. An investigation is ongoing into responsibility for the events which prompted the Kuwaiti Interior Minister's resignation.
Local Authorities: Expenditure
Question
Asked by Lord Stoddart of Swindon
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will encourage local authorities to introduce charges for services, including libraries and swimming pools, as an alternative to closing them.[HL7010]
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA320
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government (Baroness Hanham): Decisions on the level of those fees and charges which are not centrally set are a matter for individual councils.
The Government do not expect councils to address their financial challenges simply by increasing fees and charges. We have given councils much greater financial autonomy and flexibility to manage their budgets. If they share back office services, join forces to get better value from their buying power, cut out excessive chief executive pay and root out overspending and waste, then they can protect key frontline services.
Middle East
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the remarks by Lord Howell of Guildford on 11 February (Official Report, col. 441), on what they will spend the £24 million to promote stable, open economies and the £58.5 million for promoting value, human rights and British diplomatic influence in the Middle East; and whether non-government organisations will be invited to submit proposals. [HL7045]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): I refer the noble Lord to the Written Ministerial Statement made by my right honourable friend the Foreign Secretary in the other place on 1 February 2011. (Official Report, Commons, col. 42WS).
We routinely invite implementers from a wide range of civil society organisations, including non-government organisations and companies, to submit bids and participate in competitive bidding rounds for projects.
NHS: Hospital Fast-food Outlets
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government how many NHS hospitals in England have fast-food outlets on the premises; how much income is expected to be generated from those outlets in 2010-11; how many outlets each fast-food company has; and whether there are plans to extend the number of outlets. [HL7100]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Earl Howe): The details and operation of these outlets are a matter for local National Health Service management. The department does not hold any records of them.
NHS bodies should consider their policy on the sale and provision of sensitive goods, and, in light of the developing debate on healthy living, we expect them to be wary of entering into new partnerships with fast food organisations or other providers that
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA321
Olympic Games 2012
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government what consideration they have given to including the Paralympics in the title of the London 2012 Olympic Truce resolution to be proposed to the United Nations General Assembly.[HL7018]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The Government have recently commenced consultations to inform the drafting of its resolution. We have not yet decided the title, but intend it to refer to the Paralympics. The UK's draft text will be presented at the UN in September.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what mechanisms they have put in place to notify operational forces about observing the London 2012 Olympic Truce.[HL7019]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence (Lord Astor of Hever): Her Majesty's Government are considering very carefully their position on the London 2012 Olympic Truce. Any decision taken will factor in the views of our allies, and in the case of Afghanistan the views of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and NATO.
The Ministry of Defence has a wide variety of existing mechanisms for communicating with its forces.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the United Nations Secretary-General about preparations for the London 2012 Olympic Truce.[HL7020]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The Government fully support the Olympic Truce. Preparations for the London 2012 Olympic Truce are at an early stage and are led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. We are interested in the views of international organisations in our proposals and will consult them at an appropriate stage.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the NATO Secretary General about observing the London 2012 Olympic Truce. [HL7021]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The Government fully support the Olympic Truce. Preparations for the London 2012 Olympic Truce are at an early stage and are led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. We are interested in the views of international organisations in our proposals and will consult them at an appropriate stage.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA322
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the Commonwealth Secretary-General about observing the London 2012 Olympic Truce.[HL7022]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The Government fully support the Olympic Truce. Preparations for the London 2012 Olympic Truce are at an early stage and are led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. We are interested in the views of international organisations in our proposals and will consult them at an appropriate stage.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the European Union High Representative about observing the London 2012 Olympic Truce.[HL7023]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The Government fully support the Olympic Truce. Preparations for the London 2012 Olympic Truce are at an early stage and are led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. We are interested in the views of international organisations in our proposals and will consult them at an appropriate stage.
Palestine
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the Palestinian Authority's plans for parliamentary elections by September 2011, and the prospect of them being held in both Gaza and the West Bank.[HL7086]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): As my honourable friend Alistair Burt made clear in his statement of 16 February 2011, the UK welcomes the announcement by the Palestine Liberation Organisation that it will hold national elections by September for all Palestinians in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza. We, together with our EU partners, stand ready to support the electoral process.
He also expressed his disappointment that Hamas has rejected these already long delayed elections. This reinforces the perception that Hamas is an organisation which can maintain its grip on ordinary Gazans only through repression and isolation.
Papal Visit
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the answer by Lord Howell of Guildford on 10 February (Official Report, col. 356) stating that the Pope's visit to the United Kingdom was unique, how the visit was unique.[HL6958]
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA323
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): As the Pope is both a head of a major international religion and a head of state, the Papal Visit in 2010 had the status of a state visit. No other religious leader combines these two roles.
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they took into account the Pope's stand on family planning and abortion when they decided to spend £1.85 million from the international development budget on his United Kingdom visit in September 2010. [HL6989]
Lord Howell of Guildford: As with any bilateral relationship, there are issues on which our views and policies differ from those of the Holy See. These are areas that we discuss with the Holy See, along with a wide range of human rights and development issues, and on which the Holy See is clear about our position. However, our differences in these areas do not mean we are unable to work constructively together.
Peacebuilding Operations
Questions
Asked by Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale
To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the comparative value of using local peacebuilding organisations and multilateral agencies such as the United Nations Development Programme when commissioning peacebuilding programmes such as "Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration".[HL7128]
Baroness Verma: Effective peacebuilding involves a wide range of partners working at different levels. Local peacebuilding organisations, multilateral partners and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) can bring a different mix of strengths including deep knowledge of the local context, established relationships with local partners, access to international lessons learned and best practice, mentoring and support, relative impartiality, monitoring and evaluation and a channel for assistance. In supporting individual peacebuilding programmes we look to respond to the specific context on the ground and select the most appropriate partners accordingly.
Asked by Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale
To ask Her Majesty's Government what support they give to the active involvement of local peacebuilding organisations in conflict analyses and in the action plans that follow those analyses. [HL7129]
Baroness Verma: The UK Government believe that conflict analysis benefits from the inclusion of local organisations and perspectives. This is reflected in the Government's guidance and training. For example, the Department for International Development's strategic
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA324
In line with this, DfID works closely with local peacebuilding organisations. For example, in Northern Uganda DfID is supporting a consortium including the Ugandan organisation Refugee Law Project to carry out analysis and monitoring of the conflict sensitivity of our post conflict development programme. In addition, DfID provides core support to several international NGOs, such as International Alert, Saferworld and Conciliation Resources, who routinely help to involve local peacebuilding organisations in conflict analysis.
Asked by Lord McConnell of Glenscorrodale
To ask Her Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of the percentage of funds for peacebuilding and stabilisation that will be directed to programmes designed by local peacebuilding organisations.[HL7130]
Baroness Verma: Effective peacebuilding and stabilisation involve a wide range of partners. Local peacebuilding organisations often play a key role and support for their work is an important component of the Department for International Development's (DfID's) approach to peacebuilding. However, funding to local organisations is often channelled through multilateral partners and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs). For example, the Government's Conflict Pool supported the UK-based organisation Saferworld to respond to the 2008 post-election violence in Kenya. Part of this funding supported local Kenyan organisation Concerned Citizens for Peace, which was carrying out community and national level peacebuilding and reconciliation. We are not therefore able to make an overall estimate of the overall percentage of funds being channelled to local peacebuilding organisations.
Pensions
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Taylor of Holbeach on 7 February (WA 36), when the 2010 civil service superannuation scheme valuation will be completed; what change in costs there are forecast to be; what is the estimated cost of the actuarial advice on increasing the pension age for civil servants who joined before 30 July 2007 by one year to 61; how many actuaries they employ; and why such a change could only apply to any service rendered after the effective date of the change in the scheme.[HL6842]
Lord Taylor of Holbeach: The Government are reviewing the discount rate assumption required to perform valuations for each of the unfunded public service pension schemes. Valuations for these unfunded schemes, which include the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme, will remain on hold until the review,
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA325
The cost of actuarial advice in looking at any changes to the scheme will depend upon the scope of the question asked. The Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme receives actuarial advice under a commercial contract with a firm of actuaries. The costs of any work, and the number of personnel needed to carry it out, will vary depending upon the nature of the task.
It has been the policy of successive governments, when making changes, not to introduce them retrospectively. In any case, the Superannuation Act 1972 requires that no change be made to the scheme that reduces the amount of accrued pension without the consultation with those affected, or their representatives, and agreement being given.
Post Office: Credit Unions
Question
Asked by Lord Kennedy of Southwark
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Wilcox on 24 January (WA 118), what assessment they have made of the effect of the Postal Services Bill on the strength of the link between the Post Office and credit unions. [HL7161]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (Baroness Wilcox): The Government are strongly supportive of Post Office Ltd working to strengthen its existing links with credit unions. The Postal Services Bill will have no direct impact on the link between Post Office Ltd and credit unions. However we believe that provisions in the Bill allowing for Post Office Ltd's separation from the Royal Mail Group will allow the Post Office to focus more sharply on areas with growth potential, such as strengthening its relationship with credit unions.
Public Sector: Salaries
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government how many (a) civil servants, (b) employees of Next Steps Agencies and the National Health Service, (c) special advisers, and (d) government appointees to quangos and similar bodies, are paid in excess of (1) the Prime Minister's salary, and (2) between £100,000 per annum and that salary level; what steps they will take to review such pay levels when new appointments are made; and whether any such appointments will have to be approved by ministers or a select committee of the House of Commons.[HL7113]
Lord Taylor of Holbeach: I refer the noble Lord to the organisational structure charts that have been published by departments, agencies and non-departmental bodies (NDPBs) on their websites which include information on individual Senior Civil Service salaries
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA326
The names of the special advisers in post whose salary is £58,200 or higher, together with details of the special advisers' pay ranges for 2010-11, were most recently published in the Prime Minister's Statement to Parliament on 28 October 2010 (Official Report, Commons, col. 18WS). The Special Advisers' Remuneration Committee, chaired by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, has overall responsibility for special advisers' pay.
The Cabinet Office does not hold the information requested on the salaries of staff working in the National Health Service.
Any proposals to appoint individuals to departments, agencies and NDPBs on full-time salaries above that of the Prime Minister (£142,500) must be approved by the Chief Secretary to the Treasury. Any appointments on salaries below £142,500 are a matter for individual departments in accordance with their own internal governance procedures.
Railways: Scheduling
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what measures will be incorporated in future franchises to encourage train operating companies and Network Rail to avoid slack scheduling.[HL6374]
Earl Attlee: The Government have no plans to include provisions on slack scheduling in future franchise agreements but compliance with punctuality obligations is carefully monitored.
Religious Leaders: Official Visits
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they plan to fund other visits by religious leaders to the United Kingdom in a similar fashion to that of the Pope in 2010.[HL6959]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government (Baroness Hanham): In addition to being the head of a major international religion, the Pope is a head of state, and the Papal visit in 2012 had the equivalent status of a state visit. The costs to Government of the visit reflected that. As no other religious leader combines these two roles, it is unlikely that other visits by religious leaders would be funded in a similar fashion.
Social Care
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to ensure that any future reductions in social care budgets do not fall disproportionately on people with learning disabilities.[HL7132]
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA327
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Earl Howe): The spending review recognises the importance of social care in protecting the most vulnerable in society. In recognition of the pressures on the social care system in a challenging fiscal climate, the coalition Government have allocated an additional £2 billion by 2014-15 to support the delivery of social care. This means, with an ambitious programme of efficiency, that there is enough funding available both to protect people's access to services-including those people with learning disabilities-and to deliver new approaches to improve quality and outcomes.
Social Cohesion
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government how they plan to counter the detrimental effect of extremist organisations on social cohesion.[HL6993]
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government (Baroness Hanham): The Government are working to build throughout the country strong, inclusive communities which reject extremism.
We will not tolerate those who spread hate and seek to divide society and deliberately raise community tensions. Measures are taken at community level by the relevant authorities to counter the influence of extremists and minimise their impact. For example, we have worked with both local authorities including Bradford and Luton, and with voluntary organisations such as Rewind which work with young people at risk from being targeted and influenced by racist groups. They provide peer and youth services support as well as offering the young people an opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and to experience visits to places such as the Beth Shalom Holocaust Centre and the Liverpool International Slavery Museum.
South Wales Police
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government on how many days Mr John Littlechild JP, vice chair of the South Wales Police Authority, sat (a) as a magistrate in a magistrates' court, and (b) in the Crown Court on appeal, in each of the last three years.[HL7061]
The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord McNally): Sittings are measured in half-days. Below are the number of half-day sittings Mr Littlechild sat as a magistrate in a magistrates' court in each of the past three years:
2008-48;2009-49; and2010-41.Mr Littlechild JP has not sat in the Crown Court.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA328
State Recognition
Question
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Howell of Guildford on 2 February (WA 266), what are the "other factors, including some United Nations resolutions" which may also be relevant to the decision of whether to recognise a state.[HL6779]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): It is impossible to provide a definitive list of factors that may be relevant to questions of recognition of states, as the circumstances in which claims to statehood are made vary considerably. For example, in UN Security Council Resolution 541 (1983), the Security Council found that the attempt to create a "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" was invalid, and would contribute to a worsening of the situation in Cyprus. The Security Council therefore called upon all states not to recognise any Cypriot state other than the Republic of Cyprus.
Sudan
Questions
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they plan to recognise south Sudan as a sovereign state; and what criteria they use to determine whether to recognise a state.[HL6728]
The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Lord Howell of Guildford): The right to self-determination of the people of south Sudan and the modalities for the possible independence of south Sudan were provided for within the comprehensive peace agreement. The UK supports the choice of the people of south Sudan and expects to recognise the state of south Sudan on or after 9 July 2011.
The UK's approach to recognition is that a purported state "should have, and seem likely to continue to have, a clearly defined territory with a population, a government who are able of themselves to exercise effective control of that territory, and independence in their external relations". Other factors including some UN resolutions might be relevant.
Asked by Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead
To ask Her Majesty's Government how they are supporting a successful conclusion to the Comprehensive Peace Agreement process in Sudan. [HL6829]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The UK is providing technical and political support to the implementation of the comprehensive peace agreement (CPA). We contributed nearly £10 million through the UN to support the referendum process. We continue to support President Mbeki in his role as chair of the African Union's High Level Implementation Panel on Sudan, in particular on north-south border issues.
1 Mar 2011 : Column WA329
Asked by Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead
To ask Her Majesty's Government how they are promoting transparency and accountability in south Sudan.[HL6830]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We recognise the significant transparency and accountability challenges in southern Sudan. The UK is working actively with the Government of southern Sudan to help them address these challenges and ensure that they are responsive to the people of southern Sudan.
In January 2011 my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for International Development made clear to Deng Alor, the Minister for Regional Co-operation, the importance of political leadership on this issue. We are also working with the southern Sudan Anti-Corruption Commission in support of its work.
Asked by Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead
To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they are taking to ensure that the oil wealth sharing between north and south Sudan since 2005 has been carried out fairly.[HL6831]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The wealth-sharing protocol of the comprehensive peace agreement provides the basis for the division of oil revenues between the north and south. As a member of the Assessment and Evaluation Commission, the UK has emphasised the importance of full and transparent implementation of this protocol to both parties and continues to do so.
Asked by Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to help resolve the outstanding issues between north and south Sudan, including ensuring elections and popular consultations in Blue Nile and southern Kordofan.[HL6833]
Lord Howell of Guildford: We have emphasised to both parties the importance of inclusive and credible popular consultations in Blue Nile and southern Kordofan and continue to work closely with the UN and African Union on these issues. In Blue Nile state, the popular consultation is already underway: 68,000 people have contributed. The popular consultations in southern Kordofan will take place after the state assembly elections are held.
Asked by Baroness Kinnock of Holyhead
To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they are taking to ensure that oil revenues in Sudan are not a source of conflict after the separation of north and south Sudan.[HL6858]
Lord Howell of Guildford: The wealth-sharing protocol of the comprehensive peace agreement provides the basis for the division of oil revenues between the north and south. The UK has emphasised for both parties the importance of full and transparent implementation of this protocol and will continue to do so.
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