§ Mr. ColmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made towards introducing a best value regime for district councils in Northern Ireland; and if she will make a statement. [20738]
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§ Marjorie MowlamFollowing our announcement on 20 June of the decision to extend the existing Compulsory Competitive Tendering timetable until 1 November 1998, good progress has been made in developing a suitable Best Value regime for District Councils in Northern Ireland. In developing our plans we have been able to draw on the experience of other parts of the country but it has also been necessary to tailor our proposals to local circumstances.
The Government wish actively to involve local government and to draw on their experience in developing a suitable Best Value regime for District Councils in Northern Ireland. In order to facilitate this process, we are today publishing a Consultation Paper, setting out our proposals and inviting comments form interested parties. A copy of the Consultation Paper has been placed in the Library.