I propose to take Questions Nos. 369 and 370 together.
There is a strict process followed in my Department for the answering of PQs whereby PQs are initially assigned to line Divisions by the staff in my office, a reply is drafted by the Division providing all relevant material, cleared up through line management to Assistant Secretary level, and then to the Secretary General’s office and my office for final clearance. If the timeframe is inadequate for information to be compiled for an answer an undertaking is given to the Deputy in question to provide the information directly to him/her at the earliest opportunity.
I am happy that this process lends itself to ensuring that responses to PQs are of a high and consistent standard.