Permanent Secretary of Government Communications

HC Deb 24 March 2004 vol 419 c850W

Mr. Heald

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what expenditure is planned to be incurred in the establishment of the Permanent Secretary of Government Communications; and if he will make a statement. [161951]

Mr. Alexander

The Permanent Secretary Government Communications will work to ensure a co-ordinated approach and interaction between government and citizens with regard to the development and delivery of the Government's communications strategy.

The budget for this remit has been set at £3.4 million for 2004–05.

This includes efficiency savings of £1 million by the centralising of communications functions from across Cabinet Office units; for existing GIGS central functions funding, and for expenditure linked to the establishment of the Permanent Secretary role.