§ 23. Mr. Michael BrownTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the purpose of the citizens charter and how it will affect the working of government.
§ Mr. MaudeThe citizens charter is the most comprehensive programme ever for raising standards in the public sector. It will not affect Ministers' responsibilities for setting standards and allocating resources, but it will have a profound effect on the way Government services are delivered: increasing choice, quality, value and accountability to the customer. The charter mark scheme will recognise and reward those who achieve excellence in meeting the charter standard.
The citizens charter will maintain pressure on organisations to improve quality of service; increase efficiency and offer greater value for money to the taxpayer. It will remain at the very heart of the Government's programme over the next 10 years.