§ Mr. Tim SmithTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the timetable for the review of the arrangements for the external audit of public bodies recommended by the Nolan committee; who will be conducting the review; and who will be consulted during the review. [33545]
§ Mr. Jack[holding answer 12 July 1995]: We aim to reach provisional conclusions by the end of 1995 and then issue a consultation paper. The review is being conducted jointly by the Treasury and the Cabinet Office and covers separate recommendations which the Nolan committee addressed to those departments on external audit and on the legal framework governing propriety and accountability. The review will take account of evidence submitted to the Nolan committee but the Parliamentary Secretary, Office of Public Service, has invited all who wish to provide further comments to do so by 30 September. They should be sent to Room 130G/4, Office of Public Service, Horse Guards Road, London, SWIP 3AL.