§ Mr. MillsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is the total annual cost to the taxpayer of grants or subsidies given to the Directorate of Telecommunications.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerProvision for DTELS is made in the Government's public expenditure plans and, in common with other parts of the Home Office, the directorate is funded from moneys voted by Parliament. Since 1 April 1989, DTELS has charged for its services, including those provided to police forces and fire brigades. In the financial year 1990–91, these services generated income worth £16.4 million; the cost of operations was £19.2 million. It is expected that the trading activity will break even by 1995–96.
In addition to its trading activity, DTELS is responsible for the operation of the Home Office wireless rental scheme, under which radio equipment was supplied to police forces and fire brigades. Income from the scheme in 1990–91 was some £9 million.
§ Mr. MillsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department under what conditions the Directorate of394W Telecommunications had access to detailed drawings, designs and specifications of telecommunication equipment designed and manufactured by Sonic Communications of Castle Bromwich. Birmingham; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerIn order to enable DTELS to install and maintain telecommunications equipment manufactured by Sonic Communications, the company has for many years provided DTELS with technical information and training under arrangements which are the normal commercial practice in the telecommunications services industry.