§ Mr. Terry DavisTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) if he will make it his policy to make a statement to Parliament where any bids from Inland Revenue staff are not considered in the market testing or privatisation of any work which is currently undertaken by the Inland Revenue; and if he will make a statement on his policy with respect to Inland Revenue bids.
(2) whether he will ensure that no confidential information or tax returns are held in other countries under the arrangements for Inland Revenue work to be undertaken by private companies;
(3) whether there are any restrictions as to the location in (a) the Republic of Ireland, (b) the United States of America or (c) elsewhere of companies allowed to bid under the arrangements for market testing or privatisation for work which is currently undertaken by the Inland Revenue.
§ (2) Mr. DorrellI regret that it has not been possible to provide a substantive answer before the summer recess. I shall write to the hon. Member shortly and place a copy of the letter in the Library.