§ Mr. BreedTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will list the options which will be included in the prior options review of Government agencies. [38308]
§ Dr. David ClarkDuring the prior options reviews of their Next Steps agencies and agency candidates, departments must thoroughly examine the case for abolition; privatisation; contracting-out; market testing; rationalisation or merger with other areas of government; and agency or NDPB status. All of these options are available and there is no presupposition that any outcome is more favoured than another. The decision on future status is made with the aim of achieving the most appropriate and cost effective way of carrying out the functions so as to deliver best value for money and best service.