Contact: Paul Carey-Kent, ext 7525

1. Summary

1.1 The details of the Government's efficiency framework for 2005/06 - 2007/08 have now been received. There are elements which either remain unclear or are stated to be subject to further work by the Government. However, achievement of targets does not appear quite as implausible as it would have been based on the original consultation proposals. Further work will be required to assess the extent to which the Council's 2004/05 record and 2005/06 budget plan will yield prospects for achieving of targets.

1.2 The following decisions are sought:

· that calculations of the requirements on the County Council to generate efficiency improvements be reported to the Cabinet on 21 March 2005

· that a draft efficiency plan for the County Council be considered by the Cabinet on 21 March and by the Policy & Resources Scrutiny & Select Committee on 7 April 2005

· that the plan be finalised by the County Treasurer and Chief Executive in the light of comments made at those meetings for submission by 15 April 2005.

2. Reason

2.1 In order to meet Government requirements.

3. Other options considered and rejected

3.1 Not applicable.

4. Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or a member or officer consulted

4.1 Not applicable.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

5.1 Not applicable.

6. Reason for the matter being dealt with if urgent

6.1 Not applicable.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor T K Thornber