asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proportion of part I design work was put out to consultants by the Property Services Agency; and how much was done in house in 1979–80, 1980–81 and 1981–82, respectively; and what proportion he proposes for the future.

The percentage of part I design work put out to consultants by the Property Services Agency in 1979–80 and 1980–81 was 35 per cent. and 37 per cent. respectively. The balance was undertaken in in-house. The provisional figure for 1981–82 is 38 per cent. The aim is to increase this percentage to a little over 60 per cent. by April 1984.

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has investigated the relative cost of part I design work carried out by the Property Services Agency directly and that done by consultants; and if he will publish his findings.

A working group consisting of officials and private sector representatives is examining this issue. The group has not yet reported, and I have taken no view on the handling of its findings.