Mr. Alan WilliamsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will quantify the cost of the factors which led to an increase in the cost of cars for Ministers in his Department since 1990–91.
§ Mr. SackvilleFour main factors have led to the increase in the cost of Government car service cars for Ministers in the Department. First, the effect of inflation on GCS costs, particularly pay, vehicles and fuel. Secondly, during this period the GCS restructured its charges to reflect the fact that it had been under-recovering its full costs in 1990–91. Thirdly, the rate of value added tax has increased from 15 per cent. to 17½ per cent. Fourthly, there was the provision of an additional vehicle for an extra Minister in 1992, which accounts for some 20 per cent. of the increase.