§ Mr. HunterTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster when the Government completed their exploration of how to increase private sector involvement in the Occupational Health and Safety Agency and Recruitment and Assessment Services; and if he will make a statement. [2795]
§ Mr. HoramAfter further consideration in the light of advice from Coopers and Lybrand, the Government have decided to transfer to the private sector both the Occupational Health and Safety Agency and Recruitment and Assessment Services as single viable businesses and in a way that will ensure that they retain their reputation for the provision of high-quality occupational health services and recruitments services respectively. The sale of RAS will include a contract for the fast-stream selection process for future civil servants, specifying the services required. The civil service will retain control over its recruitment.
These agencies have developed well in the last few years, but they are subject to various constraints from having to operate within Government. Privatisation of 234W OHSA and RAS is the best way to secure the long-term interests of the staff and customers of these two businesses, as well as the taxpayer. Once they are freed from these constraints they will be better able to improve their services to existing customers, and to extend their businesses by making their services available to new customers in wider markets.
Formal expressions of interest for these businesses will be sought early in the new year. Financial advisers are being appointed.