The Instructions for Official Studies of Central Government Measures ('Instructions for Official Studies') and Guidance notes on preparation of policy proposals are central to the preparation of new initiatives included in the budget elaboration process, requires an ex ante assessment.  https://dfo.no/publikasjoner/guidance-notes-on-the-instructions-for-official-studies-of-central-government-measures   The object of the Instructions is to establish a sound basis for making decisions on central government measures by  - identifying alternative measures  -  studying and assessing the effects of relevant measures   - involving those affected by the measure, at an early stage in the process.  The minimum requirements as to the contents of a study shall always apply when examining measures falling within the scope of the Instructions for Official Studies.  A study shall answer the following questions:  1. What is the problem, and what do we want to achieve?  2. Which measures are relevant?  3. Which fundamental questions are raised by the measures?  4. What are the positive and negative effects of the measures, how permanent are these, and who will be affected?  5. Which measure is recommended, and why?  6. What are the prerequisites for successful implementation?  The Financial Management Regulations do not mention gender aspects specifically. However, the Financial Management Regulations state that all agencies (including ministries) are to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations (Section 4 Basic management principles, letter b) and Section 14 Internal control, letter f). The  Guidance Notes on the Instructions for Official Studies (Section 3.2.1) state that if measures being prepared will entail major effects in terms of equal opportunities, cf. Section 1 of the Equality and Anti-Discrimination Act, the matter shall be presented to the Ministry of Children and Equality (now: Ministry of Culture). The Ministry of Culture is working on a sector guidance document for gender and equality aspects of Official Studies.