§ Matthew TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on what date her Department established a working group of officials to prepare her Department for the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act 2000; and on what dates this committee has met since it was set up. [14767]
§ Dr. HowellsMy Department is fully aware of its responsibilities under the forthcoming legislation, not only on its own account but also in respect of its sponsored bodies. No formal working group has been established but a number of responsible officials in DCMS meet as necessary, and will ensure that all appropriate action is taken to prepare both the Department and its NDPBs for implementation.
We wrote to our NDPBs in June to ensure they were aware of the then timetable and will do so again shortly in respect of the changes announced by my right hon. and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor on 13 November. Plans are currently being developed for training throughout the Department, the creation of written guidance and the development of a departmental publication scheme.