§ Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Prime Minister what recommendations she intends to issue arising from the report released earlier this month by the Civil Service efficiency unit entitled "Consultancy, Inspection and Review Services in Government Departments".
§ The Prime MinisterThe report introduces a further stage in the management reforms begun in 1982, which are intended to ensure that those who work in Government feel a personal responsibility to increase value for money and can act accordingly. I endorse the report's recommendations, which are addressed to Ministers and Permanent 21W Secretaries in charge of Departments. My right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary to the Treasury announced on 12 December at column 493 the creation of a joint management unit to support top management in the Treasury and Cabinet Office. One of the unit's first tasks will be to assist Departments in implementing the report.