Clerk to the Committee:

My understanding is that if the committee seeks papers in connection with an issue it is examining, it is entitled to receive them. The powers of the committee are that it can call persons and obtain papers and records. If a member indicates that he or she has an interest in a particular case that does not arise from a hearing the committee has had with the relevant Accounting Officer, the Department will generally provide us with a detailed note. Sometimes difficulties arise if court cases are involved or an issue is before the courts. In general, however, Departments should provide full information and a full account to the committee.