§ Mr. MaddenTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received regarding the implications for staffing levels and confidentiality of Inland Revenue services being offered to private tender; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DorrellWe have received a number of representations about the market testing of services in the Inland Revenue. Any implications for staffing levels will depend on the outcome of particular market tests; we believe that, if work is contracted out, there are sufficient safeguards to ensure that the privacy of information about taxpayers will continue to be properly protected.