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Deputy Prime Minister: Working Hours

Asked by Nick TimothyConservativeMinistry of JusticeTabled Answered 8 June 2026UIN 4479

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, how many hours a week on average he spends fulfilling his duties as Deputy Prime Minister.

Answered by Jake Richards

The Deputy Prime Minister also holds the offices of Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor, and his responsibilities span all three roles.

The role of Deputy Prime Minister carries responsibilities that are not confined to standard working hours. It is a senior office of state with cross-government duties and a continuous requirement to respond to emerging issues, support Cabinet decision-making, and represent the Government domestically and internationally.

The Deputy Prime Minister is effectively on duty at all times and undertakes responsibilities as required, including outside normal office hours and at weekends.

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