A Timing of consultation should be built into the planning process for a policy 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.

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

C 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 questions on. It should make it as easy as possible for readers to respond, make contact or complain.

D 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.

E 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.

F 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.

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

Bruce Eadie
Head of Corporate Services Secretariat,
Room 9.54
Lord Chancellor's Department
Selborne House
54—60 Victoria Street
London SW1E 6QW