Written question asked by Roger Stott (Labour) on Monday, 2 March 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 March 1998. It was answered by Lord Smith of Finsbury (Labour) on Monday, 16 March 1998 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Dept for Culture Media and Sport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, What plans he has to assist local authorities in applying the principles of best value to the provision of cultural and leisure services.

Answer: Mr. Stott: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to assist local authorities in applying the principles of best value to the provision of cultural and leisure services. [32903] Mr. Chris Smith: My Department will work closely with local government to determine how the principles of best value can best be applied to cultural and leisure services. We shall encourage local authorities to produce cultural strategies which will lead them to challenge the purpose of services, compare their performance with others, consult their communities, and introduce competition where appropriate.

Secondary information