§ Mr. John MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if the prior options study of the health and safety division of the Department of Economic Development has been completed; and what was the outcome. [39937]
§ Mr. MossThis study, which was undertaken by independent consultants, has been completed and Ministers have concluded that a new executive non-departmental public body, operating along next steps lines, should be established to carry out the functions presently exercisable by both the division and the existing Health and Safety Agency in Northern Ireland.
An Order in Council will be required to implement the recommendations and the timetable will therefore be governed by progress in the making of that order.