To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on his Department's policy on consultation with respect to departmental reorganisation. [9664]

Departmental organisation is a matter for internal decision, bearing in mind the jobs to be done and the need for efficient and economic administration. It is not a subject for public consultation or negotiation, although we consider very carefully representations made by interested bodies and individuals. We do, of course, consult fully with the departmental trade union side on the effects of our decisions on our staff.