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| CONSULTATION
PROMISES MADE IN NEW GOVERNMENT PLANS |
20/01/04 |
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A revised code of practice has been published today by the Cabinet Office
as part of the government's drive to improve consultation by its departments
and agencies.
The new Code of Practice on Consultation will come into force in April,
and replaces the Code of Practice on Written Consultation published in 2000.
It will apply to all UK public consultations by government departments and
agencies, including consultations on EU directives.
The aim is for the new code to be shorter and clearer, and easier for departments
to use. It also strengthens the commitment to providing consultees with
feedback and to following better regulation best practice in developing
policy.
Douglas Alexander, Minister for the Cabinet Office, says: "The revised
code is an essential tool in driving up standards in policymaking, and will
help us to renew our efforts in the area of consultation."
The Code of Practice explains clearly how policymakers should apply the
consultation criteria:
- Consult widely throughout the process, allowing a minimum of 12 weeks
for written consultation at least once during the development of the policy.
- Be clear about what the proposals are, who may be affected, what questions
are being asked, and the time scale for responses.
- Ensure that consultation is clear, concise and widely accessible.
- Give feedback regarding the responses received and how the consultation
process influenced the policy.
- Monitor the department's effectiveness at consultation, including through
the use of a designated consultation coordinator.
- Ensure consultation follows better regulation best practice, including
carrying out a Regulatory Impact Assessment if appropriate.
Feedback is welcmed, and copies of the Code can be obtained from
www.cabinet-office.gov.uk/regulation/Consultation/Code.htm
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