HC Deb 29 October 1984 vol 65 cc1003-4
48. Mr. Eggar

asked the Minister for the Civil Service what representations he has received on Cmnd. 9297, "Progress in Financial Management in Government Departments."

Mr. Hayhoe

None; but it has attracted favourable and welcome expressions of support.

Mr. Eggar

Is my hon. Friend aware that Departments vary in the policies that they adopt in relation to the publication of financial management initiative documents? Can he confirm that the Government's policy is for the maximum publicity and information to be given on FMIs and other Government policies?

Mr. Hayhoe

I can confirm that the Government believe that all such documents should be published, except when questions such as security or commercial confidentiality are involved. I accept that as much publication of the FMI documents as Departments can manage should take place, but I stress that decisions on such matters are not for central Government, but for Departments.

Mr. Tom Clarke

Is the Minister aware that even this Government's approach to financial management should not mean that public services are reduced or that any member of the public should be subjected to discourtesy? Does he regard staff training as an important part of management?

Mr. Hayhoe

Yes, I certainly do. I endorse what the hon Gentleman says about members of the public not being subjected to discourtesy by civil servants. In the years that I have been responsible for parts of the Civil Service, I have found that the overwhelming majority of civil servants provide the public with an exemplary service which meets the needs of the population generally.