§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many Departments have submitted environmental appraisals with their draft public service agreements for the second comprehensive spending review; and if he will make a statement. [118859]
§ Mr. Andrew Smith[holding answer 17 April 2000]It was a requirement that the analysis submitted by all Departments to inform the spending review include consideration of the impact of their proposals and programmes on sustainable development.
§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the objectives of the second comprehensive spending review. [118860]
§ Mr. Andrew Smith[holding answer 17 April 2000]: The aim of the 2000 spending review is to determine how best Departments' programmes can contribute to the achievement of the Government's objectives, in particular their aims of:
- opportunity for everyone to fulfil their potential through education and employment:
- a fair and inclusive society in which communities are healthy and secure;
- higher productivity, sustainable growth and effective co-operation with our European and international partners.
The review will entail a rigorous scrutiny of Departments' performance in delivering effective and responsive services, improving efficiency and managing assets and other resources. It will also consider a range of issues which cross departmental boundaries.
634WThe review will set new departmental spending plans within the firm overall limits for public spending announced in the Budget.
§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many representations his Department received in relation to this year's comprehensive spending review before 31 March; and if he will continue to accept representations from both public and private sector bodies. [119584]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithNo formal count is made, but the Treasury had received a number of representations in relation to the 2000 spending review by 31 March. Treasury Ministers will continue to accept representations from both public and private bodies while the review continues, either directly or through our colleagues in other Departments.