§ Mr. GapesTo ask the Prime Minister what plans there are to carry out a review of the Queen's Awards for Export, Technological and Environmental Achievement. [64275]
§ The Prime MinisterThe Queen's Awards are made by Her Majesty The Queen on my recommendation. At Buckingham Palace's suggestion it has been agreed that now would be an appropriate time for a further review of the scheme, to ensure that it is up to date and provides the best possible incentive for British business. The Review Committee will be set up shortly. The Committee will consider all aspects of the Awards, including their scope and eligibility. The membership of the Review Committee will be made in time for any resulting changes to be implemented for the Awards in the year 2000.
Those wishing to express views on the operation of the Awards or to suggest changes are invited to submit their views to the Secretary, Queen's Awards Review, Room 188, 151 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9SS by no later than the end of January 1999. Views may also be submitted by e-mail to queens-awards-review@lond05.dti.gov.uk. or from the Secretary, Queen's Awards Review, telephone number 0171–215 3772.