To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (1) what ( a) listening exercises and (b) public forums his Department has held in each of the last two years; what the (i) purpose and (ii) cost was in each case; and who the private contractor was and how much it was paid in each case; (221346)

The Cabinet Office held three events in March 2008 to identify the most effective way to deliver improved community safety in partnership with local people as part of the crime and communities review. The events were attended by over 600 people and comprised of open discussions and interactive audience participation. The events cost a total of £256,632, including VAT.

Following a competitive tendering exercise, M Integrated Solutions was awarded the contract and was paid £250,758, including VAT. The Central Office of Information was paid £5,874 to cover the tendering and other administrative costs.