§ Mr. Skinnerasked the Secretary of State for Trade what is the total estimated cost to his Department of retaining private management consultants to advise on the style of forms issued by his Department; when the consultants started work; how many forms they have considered and in how many cases recommendations made by the consultants have been accepted and implemented; if he will place in the Library copies of all forms where changes in style have been made or recommended, indicating what changes have been made or recommended and why; and if he will issue a full report indicating the cost effectiveness of this project.
§ Mr. NottThe firms of consultants engaged jointly to consider the administrative forms issued by my Department started work on 20 August. The total estimated cost of their fees—including VAT—is around £25,000. I expect to receive their report shortly.