§ Mr. DevaTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to publish the outcome of his recent efficiency scrutiny into information flows between central and local government; and if he will make a statement. [4499]
§ Mr. CurryI have today published for consultation the report of an efficiency scrutiny into information flows between central and local government in England.
I am determined to cut the burden of paperwork generated by the demands for information from local government. This report makes a number of challenging recommendations for both central and local government which aim to cut the paper flow by up to one third, making savings of £8 million to £10 million a year, as well as delivering improvements in the accuracy and value of the information.
325WWe will look carefully at the report's recommendations and, following consultation with local government, prepare, and publish in the new year, an action plan for implementing the report. As the report recognises, improvements are already happening. Today's publication will give a welcome boost to that work.
I am today writing to the chairmen of the local authority associations inviting their comments on the report's recommendations, which we shall take into account in the preparation of the action plan. I am also inviting the associations to join a joint group with representatives of the main Whitehall Departments involved to oversee implementation of the action plan.
The key recommendations of the report cover:
Reducing the volume of data collected by cutting down the level of detail or the frequency with which information is collected, eliminating duplication and making greater use of sample surveys.Improving the value and usefulness of data by standardising definitions, reviewing forms with those who have to complete them, and taking steps to improve understanding of: what is required, how the data will be used, and how the information provided relates to the quality and level of activity on the ground.Further work or separate reviews in a number of areas, including specific grant regimes, fire and probation services, school building projects and grants for higher education.Improving the arrangements for housing and transport capital programmes, and for European regional development fund and European social fund—ESF—grants, including greater delegation of responsibility in some areas to the Government offices for the regions.I am arranging for copies of the report to be placed in the Library of the House. Copies are being sent to the local authority associations and to individual local authorities in England.