§ 28. Maria EagleTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what projects are being undertaken to develop the technology used in delivering Government services. [15119]
§ Dr. David ClarkMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister recently set a target that by 2002, one quarter of dealings with Government will be able to be done by a member of the public electronically—through a computer, or an interactive television set, or over the telephone.
My department is using pilot projects to give the general public the opportunity to try electronic service delivery for themselves. For example, on 8 December, I will be launching an Intelligent Form, which will convert what were once six paper forms on notification of self-employment into one electronic form. This will distribute information to Customs and Excise, Inland 240W Revenue and the Contributions Agency. An electronic signature will secure the contents of the form. The Intelligent Form will provide a seamless service for the end user.
Previously announced projects include:
Broadclyst rural Post Office kiosk which makes benefits information accessible alongside local information;a kiosk project involving HM Customs and Excise, Inland Revenue and the Contributions Agency as part of their Closer Working. It uses touch screen technology to provide information on tax, National Insurance and VAT;Direct Access Government provides a One Stop Regulation Shop on the Internet. It brings together regulatory guidance and forms from all main government departments to give easy access to business and individuals;SCOTLIS (Scottish Land Information System) provides information on land and property in Scotland to individuals and businesses. At present it is only available for a small area around Bridge of Alan, near Stirling;a pilot project which provides information on Citizen's Charter data on a network of 200 "BT Touchpoint" kiosks within the M25.