Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Wednesday, 28 February 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 6 March 2001. It was answered by Baroness Hughes of Stretford (Labour) on Tuesday, 6 March 2001 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, what plans he has to change the powers of the Local Government Ombudsman with regard to complaints of maladministration, and to ensure more rapid response to complaints. - Includes ref to 15 June 2000 at 351 c722-3W.

Answer: Mr. Drew: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to change the powers of the local government ombudsman with regard to complaints of maladministration, and to ensure more rapid response to complaints. [152177] Ms Beverley Hughes: We have now completed our consultation on the organisation and operation of the public sector ombudsmen in England, including the Local Government Ombudsman. This consultation was announced to the House on 15 June 2000, Official Report, columns 722-23W by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary, Cabinet Office, and we expect to announce our conclusions shortly on how best to improve public access to the ombudsmen and their efficiency in dealing with complaints.

Secondary information