HC Deb 13 March 2002 vol 381 cc873-4
3. Mr. David Chaytor (Bury, North)

If he will list the performance and innovation unit reports for which his Department is the lead department. [40118]

The Deputy Prime Minister and First Secretary of State

The Cabinet Office is the lead Department for four completed PIU reports, which focused on a cross-cutting approach to government, regional and local government, electronic delivery of Government services, and leadership in the public sector.

The Minister of State, Cabinet Office is also the sponsor Minister for two current PIU projects, on risk and uncertainty; and ethnic minorities and the labour market.

Mr. Chaytor

The content of all PIU reports is a matter for the sponsoring Minister, so in respect of the process governing the report on the energy review, will my right hon. Friend speak to the Minister for Industry and Energy and ensure that there is the fullest possible debate about that review over the next few months, given the deteriorating international situation, particularly in the middle east?

The Deputy Prime Minister and First Secretary of State

The report was commissioned by the Prime Minister, as my hon. Friend is aware. It was conducted by the PIU under the sponsorship of the Energy Minister. In those circumstances, it has produced the report, and statements have been made. The report is now publicly available for consultation and discussion. After the consultation, and despite the controversial issues associated with our commitments on climate change and nuclear energy, we will produce our White Paper at the end of this year. We will include our conclusions in it, as Governments normally do.