§ Mr. RookerTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what were the value-for-money savings in his Department's operations identified by internal audit and internal efficiency arrangements and by external audit and by management consultants retained by his Department between 1983–84 and 1988–89; and what is the amount of those savings fulfilled to date.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 5 June 1990]: The results of the many such studies are measured on different bases and are not aggregated centrally. Improved quality of service may be as significant as savings. The results are reflected in the budgets and targets set out in the annual departmental management plans, and the business plans of the Department's agencies, copies of which are placed in the Library.
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§ Mr. RookerTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what mechanisms exist in his Department for identifying and tracking value-for-money savings in its operations.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 5 June 1990]: In the Department and its agencies, which comprise some 60 per cent. of manpower, prime responsibility for identifying and delivering value for money rests with a range of managers with delegated financial authority. Their responsibilities are reflected in the targets and plans included in the Department's management plan and in the business plans of the agencies. These plans, which include specific efficiency targets agreed with the Treasury, are all published and placed in the Library. Managers use a number of mechanisms to satisfy themselves about value for money, including market testing, efficiency scrutinies and management reviews, depending on the type of expenditure. These mechanisms are discussed from time to time with Treasury and are subject to scrutiny by the National Audit Office.