PMQT Written Answers – 21 November 1995

Below is the text of the written answers relating to Prime Minister’s Question Time from 21st November 1995.

PRIME MINISTER:

Public Interest Immunity Certificates

Mr. Cohen: To ask the Prime Minister if he will list all those in his Office who have authority to issue public interest immunity certificates; how many have been issued in each of the last five years; and what were the main reasons for them.

The Prime Minister: A claim to public interest immunity relating to departmental documents or information is normally made by the appropriate departmental Minister. I have not myself, nor have others within my Office or the Cabinet Office, signed public interest certificates in the last five years.

French Nuclear Tests

Mrs. Ewing: To ask the Prime Minister what representations he received from the Governments of (a) Australia and (b) New Zealand prior to the French nuclear tests in the South Pacific regarding opposition to the tests; and if he will publish them.

The Prime Minister: We have had a number of contacts with the Australian and New Zealand Governments on this issue. These exchanges remain confidential between the Governments concerned.

Engagements

Mr. Harry Greenway: To ask the Prime Minister if he will list his official engagements for Tuesday 21 November 1995.

The Prime Minister: This morning I had meetings with ministerial colleagues and others. In addition to my duties in this House I shall be having further meetings later today.