B

THE CONSULTATION CRITERIA

B1      Timing of consultation should be built into the planning process for a policy (including legislation) or service from the start, so that it has the best prospect of improving the proposals concerned, and so that sufficient time is left for it at each stage.

B2      It should be clear who is being consulted, about what questions, in what timescale and for what purpose.

B3      A consultation document should be as simple and concise as possible. It should include a summary, in two pages at most, of the main questions it seeks views on. It should make it as easy as possible for readers to respond, make contact or complain.

B4      Documents should be made widely available, with the fullest use of electronic means (though not to the exclusion of others), and effectively drawn to the attention of all interested groups and individuals.

B5      Sufficient time should be allowed for considered responses from all groups with an interest. Twelve weeks should be the standard minimum period for a consultation.

B6      Responses should be carefully and open-mindedly analysed, and the results made widely available, with an account of the views expressed, and reasons for decisions finally taken.

B7      Departments should monitor and evaluate consultations, designating a consultation co-ordinator who will ensure the lessons are disseminated.

Consultation Period

The consultation period of this White Paper is less than the standard minimum in order for comments to be received in time to inform drafting of the Enterprise Bill.

Comments

Any comments on the conduct of the consultation should be directed to:

Andrew Dobbie
Consultation Co-ordinator
Department of Trade and Industry
1 Victoria Street
London
SW1H 0ET
Tel: 020 7215 6509