Cabinet Office Minister Ian McCartney this week launched a study into the likely impact of "modern working practices" on the Government's future property requirements.

"The watchword for workspace in the future has to be flexibility," McCartney said. "Our overriding priority must be to study the impact of flexible working practices on the demand for core government office accommodation."

And he knows who to ask, too.

"The people at the sharp end of the business have a very good feel for what will work best in terms of the office environment," McCartney noted. "We should listen to and consult staff when planning accommodation."

On another thorny question, the Minister has decided to seek private sector advice. The Computer Software and Services Association has been asked to conduct a study of industry experiences in large IT projects. A summary of the expertise gained and a set of recommendations for handling future public sector projects will figure in the Government's own review of its rocky performance with IT.

Elliott Chase