Consultation
10. The Department has consulted extensively,
and over a considerable period of time, on these proposals. This
has included the establishment of a 'Project Board', comprising
representatives of the main stakeholders, to assist in the development
of the proposals; and the holding of a series of seminars, presentations
and meetings involving a wide range of those affected. The Project
Board and other consultation informed the production of a written
consultation document, which was published in May 2001 and sent
to a total of 1654 recipients, once again across a broad range
of those who would, or might, be affected.[9]
The document was also published on various Government websites,
and all VA and other maintained schools were informed that it
was available. The written consultation on this proposal had itself
been preceded by written consultation exercises firstly on the
Department's overall capital strategy, and secondly on initial
proposals for changes to the VA sector. We are satisfied that
the proposals have been the subject of adequate consultation;
indeed, we wish to commend the Department for having consulted
so thoroughly and in so comprehensive a fashion.
11. The overwhelming majority - 91% - of the 127
respondents were in favour of the changes proposed. A summary
of the main points raised in consultation responses, and the Department's
response to them, may be found in paras 56-105 of the explanatory
memorandum. Changes made to the proposals in the light of consultation
are explained in paragraphs 106-116 of the memorandum. None appears
to us to have required re-consultation. We are satisfied that
the Department has taken adequate account of the responses received.
9 op cit. Back
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