Oral Answers to Questions

Lord Lansley Excerpts

Thursday 12th September 2013 Commons Chamber

[Keith Vaz (Leicester East) (Lab)]

5. What assessment he has made of the current level of independence of select committees.

[The Leader of the House of Commons (Mr Andrew Lansley)]

The independence and impact of Select Committees has undoubtedly increased markedly since the implementation of this Government’s reforms. The election of Chairs by the House and of Committee members by the members of political parties has been instrumental in achieving this increased independence.

[Keith Vaz]

Does the Leader of the House agree that Ministers should not seek to influence or interfere in the work of Select Committees?

[Mr Lansley]

I do agree with that. I attach great importance to mutual respect and trust between Ministers and Select Committees.

[Diana Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab)]

6. What plans he has to extend the practice of pre-legislative scrutiny.