HC Deb 27 November 1987 vol 123 cc353-4W
Mr. Dalyell

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what staff saving he estimates would result from purchase of a computer system for national insurance and social security operation; what are the running costs of such a system; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

It would be impracticable to attempt to quantify savings or running costs in the absence of specific plans or proposals to purchase such a computer system. The Departments operational strategy, which is developing the social security computer system, estimates staff savings of around 16,000 from 1992–93; with running costs of the system estimated at £45 million per annum at today's prices.