§ Mr. ChopeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what percentage of correctly presented bills were paid by his Department in(a) 1998–99 and (b) 1999–2000 within 30 days of receipt of (i) goods and services, (ii) a valid invoice and (iii) other agreed payment terms. [130043]
§ Dr. Reid[holding answer 11 July 2000]: In 1998–99, the Scottish Office, including its executive agencies and associated Departments, paid 97.8 per cent. of valid invoices for goods, services and works within either 30 days or the agreed payment terms. The corresponding figure for the first quarter of 1999–2000 was 97.6 per cent. The Scotland Office was established on 1 July 1999. 583W From that date until 31 March 2000, the Department paid 98.4 per cent. of valid invoices within either 30 days or the agreed payment terms.
Information on the timing of payment in relation to the receipt of goods and services rather than receipt of invoices is not held centrally. Information on other agreed payment terms, which are relatively uncommon, is not held centrally. Payment of invoices from 1 July 1999 by the Scottish Executive is a matter for the Scottish Parliament.