Written question asked by Lord Taylor of Goss Moor (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 12 November 1997, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 5 December 1997. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Friday, 5 December 1997 on behalf of the Department for Education and Employment.

Dept for Education and Employment

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment, what is his policy in respect of the faxing of press releases on the day of release to Opposition party spokesmen; what changes have been introduced since 1st May.

Answer: Mr. Matthew Taylor: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what is his policy in respect of the faxing of press releases on the day of release to Opposition party spokesmen; what changes have been introduced since 1 May and if he will make a statement. [16297] Dr. Howells: It is the policy of my right hon. Friend to provide press releases of major significance to Opposition party spokesmen on the day of release. Delivery can be by fax or hard copy, depending on which method is most suitable. Copies of all press notices are placed in the House of Commons library on the day of publication and are available on the Department's Web site the following day. There has been no change of policy since 1 May.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 16297; 302 c388-9W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Government departments Facsimile transmission Political parties Department for Education and Employment Press releases Opposition