Question to the Attorney General:

To ask the Solicitor General, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of remote working in the Law Officers’ Department on (a) confidentiality, (b) secure communications and (c) data protection.

Confidentiality, secure communications and data protection

The Law Officers’ Departments (LODs) – the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI), Government Legal Department (GLD), and Serious Fraud Office (SFO) – approach their responsibilities for data, confidentiality and security with the utmost seriousness. This is reflected in their hybrid working policies, annual mandatory data protection and security training, as well as the employment of appropriate technology, equipment and organisational systems which support remote working.

Productivity and efficiency

The LODs are also committed to delivering the most productive and value for money services.

They all operate hybrid working policies which are in line with central guidance set by Cabinet Office.

Productivity is predominantly assessed through line management chains and the departmental performance management system to assess individual performance and ensure expectations are being met. In addition, GLD staff are required to record time they spend on activities, and GLD seeks direct feedback from the government departments to which they provide legal services.

Ultimately one of the most effective ways to drive continuous productivity across the LODs is to ensure they can recruit and retain the workforce needed to deliver vital services required by the Government. A balanced approach to hybrid working is a key part of achieving this.

Costs

The LODs provide their employees with appropriate equipment to support effective, efficient and secure remote working.

As to specific costs for the CPS, GLD, and SFO, I refer the Hon Member to my responses to UINs 65703, 65704, and 65705 tabled on 8 July 2025.

HMCPSI’s spend to support remote working for the financial year 2024/25 was £370.43, equating to £18.52 per head.