§ Mr. Sean HughesTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many reports have been produced since July 1987 on the possibility of changing working patterns in the Civil Service.
§ Mr. RyderA report on the potential for developing more flexible working patterns in the Civil Service was produced by the Cabinet Office in September 1987. A copy was placed in the House of Commons Library at the time.
§ Mr. Sean HughesTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the status of the working patterns reports of September 1987; if he will list the recommendations of that report that were accepted by the Government; and if he will provide a progress report on their implementation.
§ Mr. RyderThe report on working patterns was an internal research report which looked at the potential for developing more flexible working patterns in the Civil Service. It was not prescriptive. Departments have been encouraged to make use of the ideas and suggestions contained in the report, where these will help to meet the needs of the work and their staff more efficiently and effectively. A number are now taking forward initiatives in these areas.