§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, pursuant to paragraph 57 of the report of the Working Group on the Government Information Services, what guidance has been given in respect of how bad news can be dampened down. [40675]
§ Dr. David ClarkParagraph 57 of the Report concerns the inclusion in policy submissions of advice on presentational aspects, of which dampening "bad news" aspects is cited as one example. No central guidance has been given or is needed: it is the job of the Government Information and Communication Service to provide effective communication and explanation of Government policy and decisions.
446W
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster which recommendations of the report of the Working Group on the Government Information Service have been(a) agreed and implemented, (b) agreed but not yet implemented and (c) dismissed; and if he will make a statement. [40678]
§ Dr. David ClarkI refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on 27 November 1997,Official Report, column 604. The majority of recommendations are now being implemented and the remainder will be in due course.
§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster when the last internal VFM study into the Government Information Service was carried out; what were the results; and when the next study is planned. [40676]
§ Dr. David ClarkEach department and agency is responsible for the VFM of its own information and communications functions; in the same way as for any other part of its activities.