Exporters can now apply for export licences by sending a floppy disc to the Department of Trade and Industry. The application form can be obtained by downloading from the web site www.dti.gov.uk/export.control or by disc from the department.
The advantage to the exporter is that the software allows them to store basic details about themselves and their exports. The department will gain through error reduction. 

Mike O’Brien, Home Office Minister, has challenged fire services to modernise and do better. It costs 20 pounds per head to provide fire cover in Hampshire, but up to 25 per cent more in some other areas. There are also wide variations in performance between different fire services. The Audit Commission found that there were no consistent links between spending and improved services. 

Janie Percy-Smith
Need is increasingly used as the basis for the provision of a range of public services. This timely book examines ways in which needs are assessed in relation to these services. It examines the theory and practice of needs assessment and present a series of policy specific case studies where needs assessments are being used, including: health, housing, community care, legal aid and training.
ISBN 0 335 19595 4 Paperback 13.99 pounds. 0 335 19596 2 Hardback 45.00 pounds.