§ Mr. Ryderasked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he will list measures to encourage competition being considered by his Department.
§ Mr. Tom KingA great deal of the work of my Department is aimed at improving the operation of the Labour market and so contributes directly or indirectly to encouraging a more competitive economy. This work involves action in a number of areas including: labour costs; industrial relations law; labour placement; training and the use of labour; and employment and health and safety requirements. The relevant programmes and measures for which I am responsible are continually reviewed to ensure that they meet this objective efficiently and cost-effectively.