To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on his Ministry's contribution to the citizens charter.

Principles such as those in the citizens charter have particularly guided this Ministry's programme for the past two years. I refer the hon. Gentleman to the establishment of the food safety directorate, the consumer panel, regular meetings with consumer organisations, and the announcement of a review of flood defence and coastal protection with those concerned, including environmental organisations.As I indicated on appointment, this is a consumer Ministry. I have already announced the restructuring of our regional organisation to make it more effective in meeting the requirements of one important group of customers.The citizens charter principles will be taken forward in the Ministry and its agencies.