HC Deb 05 April 1984 vol 57 cc1103-4
11. Mr. Favell

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the progress of computerisation of the pay-as-you-earn system; and when he expects it to be fully implemented.

Mr. Moore

I am pleased to say that the programme is proceeding to time and costs. It is expected to be fully implemented, as planned, by the end of 1987 or early 1988.

Mr. Favell

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Has the system the capacity to keep the nation's records of national insurance contributions?

Mr. Moore

When fully installed, the system will have the capacity, and that service could be provided. However, there would need to be an operational need for it.

Mr. Wainwright

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that by blocking all major income tax reform for six years, the income tax computerisation programme is the biggest menace to the sovereignty of Parliament since King Charles I? Will he guarantee that, by the end of 1987, no Treasury Minister will persist in using the argument that tax reform has to be deferred until these machines are in order?

Mr. Moore

I shall not endorse the hon. Gentleman's earlier question, but I know that he will be delighted at the way that the proposals are proceeding to cost and time. When they are fully implemented, structural changes in personal taxation will be easier to impose.

Mr. Hanley

Is my hon. Friend broadly satisfied with the choice of hardware and software used for this computerisation?

Mr. Moore

Speaking on behalf of the Inland Revenue, I can say that it is well satisfied with the level of collaborative effort with ICL. This collaboration between the private and public sectors is an excellent example of what good work can be achieved in Britain.