Monday 13th February 2012

(12 years, 9 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Earl Howe Portrait Earl Howe
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Yes, I can. The reform of the NHS is a major project. Frankly, it would be irresponsible if the Government were not to commission expert professional advice in undertaking a project of this kind. Consultancy, if used judiciously, can be highly cost-effective. I assure the noble Lord that the implementation of the Health and Social Care Bill is occupying our minds night and day and, so far, I am pleased to report that it is going well.

Baroness Jolly Portrait Baroness Jolly
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Can my noble friend tell the House how many reports were written for the Department of Health by McKinsey between 1997 and 2010?

Earl Howe Portrait Earl Howe
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I do not have the figure that my noble friend asks for. I do have a figure for the spend by the previous Administration between 2006 and 2010 on consultancy from McKinsey. That amounted to nearly £30 million. In 2005-06, just one year, the previous Government spent more than £170 million on consultancy services with Accenture plc.