21158 (2025). Francisco Hernandez to the Associate Minister of Agriculture

21158 (2025). Francisco Hernandez to the Associate Minister of Agriculture: What training, if any, was provided to staff in the Minister's office regarding the handling of sensitive information, and did the training contain information warning against the use of personal emails in conducting work-related business?

Hon Andrew Hoggard: As part of their employment documentation, staff based in Minsters' offices are required to read and sign the ‘Security requirements for handling classified information in Ministerial offices.’ Learning modules covering information management, privacy and security are provided to all staff employed by Ministerial Services and seconded staff. The Information Management module covers using the Minister's shared mailbox for emails for work purposes. In addition, Ministerial Services provide written guidance to senior private secretaries titled ‘Managing your Minister’s information: a guide for new Senior Private Secretaries.’ The material covers security requirements for handling classified information and where and how to store Minister’s information. There is a specific guide titled ‘How to manage your emails’ included. I am also advised that there is an induction programme for Private Secretaries which covers the handling of sensitive information.