Question to the Department for Education:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what was the total cost of the Review of the Balance of Competences between the United Kingdom and the European Union to the Department for Education and its associated agencies, broken down by (1) staff time, (2) printing costs, (3) running of engagement events, (4) witness expenses, (5) publicity of the reports, and (6) any and all other associated costs.

As you will be aware, the Balance of Competences Review concluded in December 2014. It was the most comprehensive analysis of the UK’s relationship with the EU ever undertaken. The Review involved a large number of Departments across Whitehall to produce the 32 reports. The Review was based on the evidence and views received through widespread consultation with interested parties from across society. Across the whole review, Departments received close to 2,300 evidence submissions. The involved Departments also held over 250 events, attended by around 2,100 stakeholders.

It was important that what is an unprecedented examination of EU membership was done with appropriate time and care. But the Government is also very conscious of the need to ensure value for money in everything that it does.

Costs

1. Staff costs

   Between May 2015 to December 2015, the Balance of Competence Review Team in the Department was staffed by the equivalent of one Grade 7 (salary range £49,739 - £58,373). All other work on the Review was allocated, according to need, to existing staff within the Department. Therefore, providing a full breakdown of staff time and costs would exceed the disproportionate cost threshold.

2. Printing costs

   The printing and publication for the Education, Training and Youth report was coordinated centrally, but paid for by the Department. Printing costs for the report were £3,071.16.

3. Running engagement events

   Engagement events in Edinburgh and Brussels cost a total of £1,670.51.

4. Witness expenses

   Across the whole of the Balance of Competences Review witness expenses amounted to approximately £2,255.

5. Publicity

   There was no publicity cost.

6. All other associated costs

   There were no other associated costs.