§ Mr. Alan SimpsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what proposals his Department has to ensure a more efficient processing of PFI projects. [56931]
§ Mr. MealeMy Department is working with the Treasury Taskforce in implementing the recommendations of the Bates Review for streamlining the Private Finance Initiative.
Regulations have been amended to help facilitate local government PFI schemes and an explanatory note on PFI and Public/Private Partnerships in local government was issued in September. The Department has strengthened its private finance unit, which plays a central co-ordinating and advisory role. We shall continue to liaise with local government representatives and the Public Private Partnerships Programme about procedures for handling applications for revenue support.