§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many departmental services have been reviewed since agreement in September 1999 on the programme to do so. [47365]
§ Ms Blears[holding answer 10 April 2002]: Since September 1999, the Department has reviewed 30 of its services, equating to approximately 25 per cent. of its activities. The review process was in accordance with Government policy in the handbook "Better Quality Services".
Since March 2001 specific BQS activity has been incorporated into a fundamental review of all the Department's services and activities. This fundamental review was carried out in the spirit of BQS in line with Government policy. It has generated a programme of change that focuses on the Department's delivery contract and which aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Health who undertakes the review of departmental services. [47364]
§ Ms Blears[holding answer 10 April 2002]: Reviews of departmental services are undertaken by using either in-house expertise or external consultants, where it is felt that they can add value.