HC Deb 19 November 2001 vol 375 c83W
Norman Baker

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what the purpose of the Delivery Unit is; and what its aims, objectives and workplan are for(a) 2001–02 and (b) 2002–03. [15885]

The Prime Minister

I am replying to this question as it relates to matters for which I am responsible.

The purpose of the Delivery Unit is to ensure that the Government achieve their delivery priorities during this Parliament across the key areas of public service: health, education, crime and asylum and transport.

It will:

  1. i. report regularly to me on progress towards achievement of these priorities;
  2. ii. help in holding the public service Departments to account through the established PSX monitoring process to make sure that they meet their agreed PSA targets;
  3. iii. ensure that, within departmental spending limits set in the spending review, problems of delivery are solved as rapidly as possible when they emerge;
  4. iv. sustain the Government's focus on the key objectives over time.

Norman Baker

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will list the material published in relation to the work of the Delivery Unit; what his policy is in respect of the publication of such material; and if he will make a statement on the public accountability of this unit. [15882]

The Prime Minister

I am replying to this question as it relates to matters for which I am responsible.

The Delivery Unit has not yet published any material. The unit reports to me and is under the day-to-day supervision of Lord Macdonald, the Minister for the Cabinet Office. It is headed by my Chief Adviser on Delivery, Professor Michael Barber.

Norman Baker

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what the budget is for the Delivery Unit in(a) 2001–02 and (b) 2002–03; and how many (i) officials and (ii) special advisers are in this unit. [15881]

The Prime Minister

I am replying to this question as it relates to matters for which I am responsible.

The budget for the Delivery Unit is still being finalised.

At 1 September 2001, there were 12 civil servants in the unit, and no special advisers.