Kennedy: it is absurd that David Blunkett had to seek advice, but not take it

5.38.12pm GMT Wed 2nd Nov 2005

Following the circumstances of David Blunkett's resignation, Charles Kennedy challenged the Prime Minister over the operation of the Ministerial Code of Conduct, pointing out that it was "absurd that an ex-minister is obliged to seek advice, but not actually to take that advice."

The Prime Minister conceded that "ministers are expected when they leave office to take the advice of the Independent Advisory Committee, and obviously that has to be made clear - it certainly is very clear now I would say."

Charles Kennedy also sought assurance from the Prime Minister that the "number 10 machine" would not "seek to impose their will on that Secretary of State where the reform of Incapacity Benefit is concerned?" This follows reports that Mr Blunkett and the Prime Minister disagreed over this issue.