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Disabled People (Access to Information)
21. Mr. Burstow:
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what consultations he (a) has had and
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(b) plans to have with organisations of and representing disabled people in relation to the publication of Government information in accessible formats. [4947]
Mr. Kilfoyle:
The accessibility of government information for disabled people will be included in the planned consultation with the general public and with disability organisations on what people want from public services.
We welcome the views of all interested groups and individuals on the proposals to be set out in the Freedom of Information White Paper and subsequent draft Bill. The views and proposals of those representing the particular interests and needs of disabled people will, of course, be considered very carefully.
22. Mr. Ian Stewart:
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the role of the efficiency and effectiveness group in his Department. [4948]
Dr. David Clark:
The Efficiency and Effectiveness Group comprises Efficiency Unit and the Next Steps Team. It is central to carrying out the Government's programme to provide high quality and efficient public services, at the lowest cost to the taxpayer. The Group supports departments (and their agencies and other public bodies) to improve the management of their business, by maintaining pressure for continuous improvement through the following measures: overseeing the creation and review of Next Steps agencies and monitoring their performance in the annual Next Steps Review; scrutinising departments' efficiency plans; sponsoring efficiency scrutinies, for example the recent scrutiny on prescription fraud, and other special studies. The Efficiency Unit, along with the No. 10 Policy Unit and the Treasury, is fully involved in the Government's Comprehensive Spending Review.
24. Mr. Pike:
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what recent representations he has received in relation to deregulation. [4951]
Dr. David Clark:
I regularly receive representations concerning deregulation and welcome further dialogue from interested parties. I am committed to delivering responsible and responsive regulation, listening to and involving business, particularly small firms, and the citizen in decisions.
26. Mrs. Humble:
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster with whom he intends to consult regarding his Department's New Government programme. [4953]
Dr. David Clark:
We intend to consult widely, drawing on views from users of and staff involved in the range of public services, and from small businesses representatives, consumer organisations, academics and other interested individuals and organisations. I would welcome any suggestion my hon. Friend would like to put forward.
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28. Mr. Clappison:
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make a statement on the role of Special Advisers to Ministers. [4955]
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Dr. David Clark:
Special Advisers are appointed to provide advice to their Minister in the Development and Presentation of Government policy. They are employed under terms and conditions based on the Model Contract for Special Advisers, a copy of which has been placed in the Library of the House.
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