§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) in relation to the planned computer network proposed by Electronic Data Systems, what kind of data he proposes to obtain from or transfer to the Inland Revenue; what is the anticipated number of such transfers; and for what purpose those transfers will take place;
(2) in relation to the planned computer network proposed by Electronic Data Systems, what kind of data 90W he proposes to obtain from or transfer to Her Majesty's Customs and Excise; and for what purpose those transfers will take place;
(3) in relation to the planned computer network proposed by Electronic Data Systems, what kind of data he proposes to obtain from or transfer to the Home Office; what is the anticipated number of such transfers; and for what purpose those transfers will take place.
§ Mr. LyellElectronic Data Systems is among five consortia which have expressed an interest in the proposal for the possible establishment of a shared Government data network. Each consortium will shortly have an opportunity to submit formal proposals.
If such a network is established there are no plans to use it for exchange of information between this Department and Her Majesty's Customs and Excise or the Home Office.
It is expected that this Department will, in due course, wish to use the facility (with appropriate safeguards to protect confidentiality) to transfer information relating to income tax deductions and taxable national insurance benefits between it and the Board of Inland Revenue. This information, currently exchanged on magnetic tape, helps the board to calculate the correct income tax liability.
The number of such transfers is primarily determined by the number of individuals who are in employment or who receive taxable national insurance benefits.