HC Deb 07 October 2003 vol 411 cc26-7W
Norman Baker:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office how many electronic red boxes are in use; what has been the total cost of introducing such boxes; and what savings have resulted. [129260]

Mr. Alexander:

In 1998, the Defence Research Agency developed a prototype electronic red box to test security and technology features. I am informed that the cost was approximately £1,000. After ministerial trials, the prototype was not rolled out because evaluation found that it would not have significantly improved the efficiency of the management of ministerial business at that time. We continue to explore alternative methods of electronic working such as remote connection to the Government Secure Intranet and Smart Card technology.