§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been the total cost so far of the market testing initiative in his Department since November 1991.
§ Mr. Lang[holding answer 1 July 1992]: An estimate of staff and other Departmental costs is not readily available. One consultancy study has been undertaken: the fee is covered by commercial confidentiality.
§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has made of savings in his Department as a result of the market testing programme.
§ Mr. Lang[holding answer 1 July 1992]: Estimated savings in the first full year resulting from market testing undertaken within the past five years are as follows:
Year £ 1987–88 1,081,000 1988–89 138,000 1989–90 357,000 1990–91 721,000 1991–92 646,779 Similar savings recur in each subsequent year.
§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will give a date when he will announce the areas of work in his Department to be market tested; and whether all relevant information will be made publicly available.
§ Mr. Lang[holding answer 1 July 1992]: The market testing programme for 1992–93 will be announced as soon as possible.