Horticulture Research International (Hansard, 10 December 2001)

§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Lord Whitty)

A quinquennial review of Horticulture Research International has been announced today. The terms of reference are as follows: to conduct an evaluation of the performance of Horticulture Research International since the last review in 1996; and to consider in the light of this evaluation and the views of customers and other stakeholders whether executive NDPB status remains the most cost effective way of achieving its own and departmental aims, as well as government-wide aims such as those relating to science policy, sustainable development and Modernising Government. As part of the review, to consider the sponsorship arrangements between EIRI and Defra, including funding.

In reaching a view about HRI's status, to consider whether the current arrangements are responsive to 174WA the needs of the UK horticulture industry and HRI's other stakeholders; financially sustainable; and operationally flexible so as to be able to adjust easily and quickly to changes in technology, industry requirements, consumer demands and funding opportunities.

If the review concludes that HRI should continue to function as an NDPB, then it will consider what changes, if any, are required to its management statement in the light of the findings of the review. If, however, the review concludes that a different delivery system would provide high quality, more effective and better value for money services, then it will set out the rationale and recommend appropriate costed options to Ministers.

The review will be conducted by a review team attached to Defra's Science Directorate, working in consultation with the Cabinet Office, Treasury and the Office of Science and Technology.

Interested parties are invited to submit their views to the review team by 22 March 2002. Details of how to contact them are contained in Defra's news release issued today.