§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will publish details of the draft charter for the new Engineering Council as to the number of its members and what institutions will be represented, its 445W terms of reference and what consultations are taking place on the draft charter; when he expects these to be finalised; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Industry what further progress has been made in relation to the formation of the new engineering body to be set up as recommended in the Finniston report; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael MarshallA draft charter was published in September last as part of a consultative document on the Government's proposals for a Royal Chartered body. Over 100 written submissions have been received and consultations have been taking place with interested parties. Officials are redrafting the charter in the light of the views expressed. We hope to finalise the charter arrangements shortly. Although the body's membership will reflect a wide range of interest, individual organisations will not be directly represented. A copy of the latest draft charter is being placed in the Libraries of both Houses.