§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what consultation he intends to introduce with respect to future Government plans for public expenditure; and if he will make a statement. [24718]
§ Mr. Darling[holding answer 22 January 1998]: New plans will be announced following the conclusion of the Comprehensive Spending Review which involves 24 departmental reviews and six cross-departmental reviews. The terms of reference of these reviews have been made public to encourage comments from those interested; departments are also consulting interested bodies. The results of the reviews will be announced to Parliament for scrutiny and examination in keeping with the principles of openness to which the Government are committed.