Lord Brougham of Vauxasked Her Majesty's Government:
What plans they have for the future status of the Crown Agents and Commonwealth Development Corporation.
§ Baroness Chalker of WallaseyMinisters have decided to review the status of the Crown Agents. Consultants will be appointed to advise on the feasibility of various options, including retention in the public sector. Account will be taken of the implications of any change for the Crown Agents'32WA existing clients, which include a wide range of international aid donors, the Overseas Development Administration and many overseas governments.
Similarly, options for the future status of the Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC) are being examined in the context of the current quinquennial review. The recommendations of the Monopolies and Mergers Commission, contained in their recent efficiency scrutiny of the CDC, are being considered as part of this review. In commissioning these reviews Ministers recognise the valuable role that both Crown Agents and CDC play in their respective spheres of activity.