§ Mr. David Priceasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total number of different forms which his Department, and its subordinate agencies, have currently available for different purposes requiring completion by members of the general public; when the necessity for each such form was last reviewed; and whether he intends to reduce the number of such forms and to simplify their contents.
§ Mr. Robert SheldonThe total number of different forms is 1,866. It is not possible to distinguish in all cases between those for use by members of the general public and those for use by business and other organisations. The need for a particular form is reviewed whenever there is a change in legislation or requirements, or when it has to be reprinted. The number and contents of forms depend on the requirements which have to be met.