§ Norman LambTo ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office if he will place in the Library Government guidelines on the publication and use of opinion research by Government Departments. [177670]
§ Mr. AlexanderOpinion research is used by Government Departments to assess public response to the policies or services for which the Department is responsible, to develop policy and track delivery. Publication is a matter for individual Departments.
The propriety of this work is covered by the Civil Service Code, and if appropriate, the Guidance on the Work of the Government Information Service which is available in the Library.
Good practice guidance on the technical aspects of social research and evaluation in policy making is currently being prepared and will be published on The Policy Hub (www.policyhub.gov.uk). Some chapters are available already. A full copy of the guidance will be placed in the Library once it is completed. Advice is also available from professional social researchers working in most Departments and where necessary they can consult the Government's Chief Social Researcher.