§ Mrs. RocheTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much was paid late to the private sector for goods and services by his Department in 1995–96. [26144]
§ Mrs. Angela Knight[holding answer 24 April 1996]: In 1995–96 the Treasury paid 9 per cent. of legitimate private sector invoices more than 30 days after their receipt and 91 per cent. on time. This figure reflects the clearing up of outstanding and disputed invoices and improvements to the Treasury's payment performance. In most cases the Department would have discussed the reason for the delay with the supplier, for instance to resolve disputes concerning the invoice or the delivery.