asked the Minister for the Public Service if he is aware of the United Kingdom Government report (Cmnd 8504) on "Administrative Forms in Government"; if he will initiate a similar review here as to whether forms issued to the public by Government Departments are as well designed and as simple as they should be; and if he generally favours the recommendations of the United Kingdom report.
Written Answers. - Departmental Forms.
548.
I am aware of the publication mentioned. I strongly support the efforts which are being constantly made to ensure that all official forms are easily dealt with. This involves both simplifying their content and improving their presentation.
A great deal has already been done in this field by Government Departments. I consider that more remains to be done and so I have recently taken steps to have a special review made of forms and documents to try and make them as effective as possible. Any improvements suggested by any Member of this House, or by anyone else will be warmly welcomed and will receive serious and sympathetic consideration.