§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what use he plans to make of the Internet to make Government more open. [5101]
§ Mr. DewarThe Scottish Office already makes use of the Internet to publish electronically information about its work. An updated Web site is being developed to replace the current version, which has been available since August 1995. The updated site will provide further information about the business of the Department, including named contacts; full text of Departmental publications, including press releases, consultation papers and statistical bulletins; national and Departmental Charter standards and information about performance against these; information about Departmental complaints procedures; and regulatory forms and guidance.
My hon. Friend the Minister for Home Affairs and Devolution will launch a separate Scottish Devolution Web site in Edinburgh on 30 June. This will provide details of the Government's proposals for a Scottish Parliament including access to Ministerial speeches, details of meetings and Parliamentary proceedings.
In addition, the Scottish Office is examining the delivery of further services electronically where that will deliver better quality or efficiency.