§ 18. Mr. Thurnhamasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what measures he proposes following the conclusions of the recent report by the Management and Personnel Office on Government purchasing.
§ Sir Keith JosephOfficials of the Department are preparing an action document on the conclusions of the report. The document will shortly be submitted for my approval.
§ Mr. ThurnhamWill my right hon. Friend do all in his power to simplify Government purchasing procedures so that small firms can play their part in achieving the potential savings of £400 million a year?
§ Sir Keith JosephAlthough the Department is a relatively small public purchaser we shall certainly, on the basis of the report, do our best to ensure clear responsibilities and efficient procedures for purchasing and obtaining better value for money.