Thank you for your letter of 9 July 2001. I am using the paragraph numbers as in your letter.

8.    Ms Eggington informed me of Mrs Gresty's ill health. So that I can decide whether I need to take these complaints further, I need your response including details about any matter which you believe to be relevant such as an industrial tribunal proceeding or ill health.

9.    There is no need for you to check the public information other than in relation to your own records. All I require are the facts which relate to your ownership of property and any rental income you have received during your time as a Member of Parliament. Please correct the schedule I have provided to you and return it to me so that I can provide the Committee with an accurate account of your property interests.

10.  No covering letter was provided by the Sunday Telegraph in relation to property information which was faxed to my office. The BBC Today Programme delivered the information to my office following a telephone call saying they would do so. No covering letter was provided.

11.  Yes, it would be inappropriate and unnecessary. Mr Peene has asked me to investigate this complaint. I have explained to Mr Peene that I would ask you for information and your response before I would decide whether there were matters requiring investigation. Please send me the file you mention with your response to his complaints.

I would be grateful for your response to all the matter I have raised as soon as possible. I shall not be available on the following dates, 26th July—1st August and 28th August—31st August. Otherwise I am adjusting my time off to allow me to deal with these matters as soon as I receive your response.

I was pleased to hear that you anticipate providing a reply prior to your operation. Perhaps you would give me the date on which I should expect it.

I hope that your trip abroad was successful.

With every good wish.  

16 July 2001