§ Earl Russellasked Her Majesty's Government:
How many press officers are employed by the Benefits Agency; and at what cost to the public funds. [HL877]
§ Baroness Hollis of HeighamThe employment and funding of Benefits Agency press officers is a matter for Peter Mathison, the Chief Executive of the Benefits Agency. I have asked him to write to the noble Earl.
111WALetter to Earl Russell from the Acting Chief Executive of the Benefits Agency, Mr. D. Riggs, dated 13 March 1998.
Peter Mathison has been asked to reply to your recent parliamentary Question asking how many press officers are employed by the Benefits Agency (BA) and at what cost to the public funds. As Mr. Mathison is away from the office on leave, I am replying.
The BA employs four press officers at the National Press Office in Quarry House, Leeds and a further eight in major regional centres in England, Scotland and Wales, making a total of 12. The salary costs incurred are currently £321,305 per annum.
I hope you find this reply useful.