HC Deb 15 March 1993 vol 221 c78W
Dr. Wright

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many Government employees are provided with(a) a car, (b) a driver; and if he will list them.

Mr. Baldry

This information is not available centrally and would have to be provided by individual Departments. In respect of the Government car service, cars and drivers are made available, as requested, to first permanent secretaries and certain chief executives, normally at permanent secretary level.

Dr. Wright

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the total cost of the Government car service for the last year for which figures are available; and what was the cost in 1979.

Mr. Baldry

The total cost of the Government car service in 1991–92 was £7.1 million. The Government car service financial records in 1979 are no longer available.

Dr. Wright

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many members of the Government are provided with a car and driver service; and if he will list them.

Mr. Baldry

All members of the Government are entitled to the use of an official car and driver. The majority of Government Ministers use the facilities of the Government car service.

Dr. Wright

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how many(a) cars and (b) drivers are currently employed in the Government car service.

Mr. Baldry

The Government car service currently has a fleet of 184 vehicles and 152 drivers.

Dr. Wright

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment during what periods of time, and for how many hours a week, a car and driver service is provided for Ministers.

Mr. Baldry

The Government car service provides cars and drivers in accordance with Ministers' requirements.