§ 67. Mr. Michael MarshallTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what evaluation of Mercury Telecommunications Systems has been undertaken with respect to the possible use by his Department; what were the results; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ButcherIn conjunction with the Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA), an evaluation of the use of Mercury Telecommunications Systems exchange lines was carried out by my Department based on telephone traffic for our headquarters building at 1–19 Victoria street. This established that worthwhile savings could be made. Mercury telephone lines were therefore installed at 1–19 Victoria street in February 1988. The first account received has confirmed that savings are being made and the Department is therefore now liaising with CCTA for the early introduction of Mercury to other DTI buildings in the Whitehall area. Discussions are also currently taking place with Mercury for possible connection of other DTI buildings outside the Whitehall area.