§ Mr. GibbTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if the Head of the Home Civil Service has published guidance(a) generally, (b) on tendering procedures and (c) on publication of the findings to Ministers in respect of qualitative and quantitative research with particular reference to focus groups. [38216]
§ Dr. David Clark[holding answer 7 April 1998]It is for individual Departments to determine their needs for research and focus groups. No specific guidance has been issued. Where tendering is involved, Departments will take account of guidance on procurement policy and practice issued by the Treasury.