§ Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for Industry what procedures he operates to safeguard public funds when studies are carried out by commercial consultants; and if this differs from the procedures operated prior to March 1974.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieThe procedures operated by my Department in regard to studies carried out by commercial consultants are based on a published code of practice drawn up by the Civil Service Department. They embody as normal practice competitive tendering; detailed evaluation of consultants' proposals prior to final selection; drawing-up of the terms of engagement; monitoring the process of the consultancy; and appraisal of performance. The same procedures apply as operated prior to March 1974.