§ 21. Mr. Denis Howellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment why his Department has failed to provide adequate staff to complete and publish the findings of the Yates committee on the training of management for the recreational and sports service; and when he now expects to publish the report.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneThe secretariat of the Yates committee was reduced two years ago when it seemed likely that its work would soon be completed. This forecast proved optimistic, but I now expect to receive the report before Christmas.
§ Mr. HowellGiven that a committee was set up seven years ago to consider the important subject of public management and that it completed its work five years ago, what justification can there be—other than inadequate provision in the Department—for the fact that we are still waiting for secretarial help to produce the first draft? Now that the matter has been drawn to the Minister's attention, will he deal with it speedily?
§ Mr. MacfarlaneI shall try to assist the right hon. Gentleman. He set up the committee in late 1976 and it 546 had its first meeting in May 1977. I am informed that the final draft is with the chairman of the committee, awaiting approval. I hope that it will be cleared speedily so that the report can be presented.