§ Mr. DobsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what was the total sum paid out in fees to outside organisations in the furtherance of privatisation by his Department in 1979–80 and in each following year; and what is his estimate for 1990–91 and budget for 1991–92.
Mr. JacksonThere are fees paid to organisations in furtherance of privatisation by the Employment Department Group—including the former Training Agency and Manpower Services Commission—in the financial period from 1979–80 to 1987–88 inclusive.
Fees to the value of £525,000 were incurred in 1988–89, to the value of £613,000 in 1989–90, and the value of £622,000 in 1990–91. These figures are inclusive of expenses plus VAT.
There is no current privatisation being undertaken, though an outstanding invoice for £30,000 will be paid in the current financial year.