§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many bridging and relocation loans are outstanding with the staff of the Information Technology Services Agency; what is the total sum of such loans outstanding; and what will be the status of such loans in the event of transfer to the private sector.
§ Mr. HagueThe information available as at 18 March 1994 is as follows:
Number outstanding Total sum outstanding Bridging loans1 20 £1,008,144 Advances of Salary2 231 £840,112.84 1 Bridging loans include all bridging and relocation loans as they are, essentially, the same thing—short term loans which are repaid when an individual's former property is sold. 2 Advances of salary are long term loans used to purchase property and are repayable over a maximum of 15 years. The status of these loans in the event of transfer to the private sector is still being considered.
§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what are the terms of reference guiding the competition to choose a strategic partner for the Information Technology Services Agency in his Department.
§ Mr. HagueThe ITSA plans to transfer its day-to-day computer and output handling operations to the private sector. A project team is taking forward the detailed work required in preparation for the tendering process. The objectives of the project team are as follows
To improve IT service provision to ITSA.To make recommendations to ministers.5WTo negotiate terms and conditions which will support the smooth transfer of civil servants to the private sector.To ensure security of service supply whilst generating ongoing competition.