Scrutiny of Government by select committees during 2003 continued at a high level of activity along with our own twice-yearly evidence from the Prime Minister. More systematic coverage has been encouraged by the core tasks, drawn up in accordance with the House's decision, which we have used to review the achievements of the year. Committee inquiries centred mainly on:
- policy, where committees had significant influence on some of the most pressing policy debates;
- legislation, both bills and the increasing number of draft bills;
- expenditure plans, as set out in departmental annual reports;
- public service agreements and targets.
Better notice of draft legislation has been useful. Post-legislative work could develop further, and would be helped by periodic assessments of selected legislation by departments.
Committee staffs are being reinforced as the Review of Select Committee Resources is implemented. The Scrutiny Unit, now at full complement, is valued for its specialist support on scrutiny of bills and expenditure.
Committees are engaging with the public by more on-line consultation, extended webcasting, modernised report formats and the provision of summaries. Dedicated media advice, currently available to a group of committees, is to be provided more generally.
At our request, the Government' s rules on access to information requested by committees are to be reviewed. Committees need fuller co-operation, in particular on:
- access to No. 10 policy advisers;
- availability of current policy reviews and reports;
- evidence on 'joined-up' policies from Government departments involved, including HM Treasury.
The fuller access to persons and papers within Government that was given to the Hutton Inquiry was welcome, and should be extended to Parliament.
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