§ Mr. StottTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to assist local authorities in applying the principles of best value to the provision of cultural and leisure services. [32903]
§ Mr. Chris SmithMy Department will work closely with local government to determine how the principles of best value can best be applied to cultural and leisure services. We shall encourage local authorities to produce cultural strategies which will lead them to challenge the purpose of services, compare their performance with others, consult their communities, and introduce competition where appropriate.