HC Deb 13 September 2004 vol 424 c1437W
Mrs. Spelman

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what the cost of satellite and cable subscriptions in his Department's buildings was in the last year for which figures are available; and if he wall list the premium channels to which his Department subscribes. [185783]

Phil Hope

In 2003–04, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister spent £21,310 inc. VAT on cable and satellite subscriptions. This comprised £1,750 on satellite and £19,560 on cable subscriptions. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister subscribes to the cheapest available business package. This includes no premium channels although until November 2003 it included Sky Sports 1.

In the London HQ buildings the business of the House and division bells are also delivered over the cable network.

Although the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has overall responsibility for the buildings occupied by Government Offices, they carry out functions on behalf of 10 Departments.