§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) how much has been spent by his Department on training in leadership skills for Ministers and officials in each of the last five years; [52723]
(2) how much has been spent by his Department on training by the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts for Ministers and officials in each of the last five years; [52716]
(3) how much has been spent by his Department on voice coaching for Ministers and officials in each of the last five years. [52718]
§ Dr. Moonie[holding answer 26 April 2002]: Training in leadership skills is an extremely important part of development activities in the Ministry of Defence, for both military and civilian staff. Its importance—emphasised within the "Modernising Government" initiative—was reflected in the recent defence training review. As a result the defence leadership centre has been established as part of the new defence academy to provide a nationally recognised centre of excellence. In addition, there are many other areas of the MOD where leadership features in both general management and more specific training. The Defence Procurement Agency, for instance, has provided leadership masterclasses and the important new area of smart acquisition has introduced a specific scheme designed to help develop integrated project team leaders.
I am not aware of any training undertaken by the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts on behalf of Ministers or officials.
The MOD does provide some training in media interview skills, which includes factors such as voice tone and stance. This training is available to all staff and on occasions has been undertaken by Ministers.
In addition, Ministers are able to take advantage of the "Programmes for Ministers" organised by the centre for management and policy studies (CMPS) in the Cabinet Office.
Information on costs for leadership or media training is not held centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.
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