HC Deb 18 November 2003 vol 413 cc736-7W
21. Mr. Challen

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what action the Cabinet Office is taking to reduce the burden of administration in the public sector. [138847]

Mr. Alexander

My Department is working closely with colleagues in other Departments to take forward a programme of measures in relation to this matter.

This joint work has delivered a significant number of actions that directly benefit front line staff, for example:

simplifying the Manual of Guidance for police and CPS on the completion of prosecution paperwork;reducing the information schools have to supply when they make applications (e.g. for specialist school status); andscrapping the requirement for GPs to sign passport applications.