§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is his estimate of the cost of(a) Ministerial cars and drivers and (b) the Department's bill for taxis in (i) 1995–96, (ii) 1996–97, (iii) 1997–98 to date and (iv) 1997–98 full year. [27761]
§ Dr. Reid[holding answer 5 February 1998]: The Government Car Service provides my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State with a dedicated car and driver under the terms of a contract. Junior Ministers are provided with cars from 20 Squadron Royal Logistics Corps. Their costs reflect the amortised rate, including capital costs, fuel, lubricants and repairs.
On this basis the estimated costs of Ministerial cars and drivers is as follows:
- (1) 1995–96: £165,684
- (2) 1996–97: £172,084
- (3) 1997–98 (to date): £146,098
- (4) 1997–98 (full year): £194,797.
The 1997–98 (full year) costs are a projected estimate. The larger increase in costs between 1996–97 and 1997–98 essentially reflects pay awards, the replacement of aging and unreliable cars with leased vehicles and additional costs related to the fact that ministerial constituencies are now situated further from London.
The costs of taxis used during the corresponding years are not held separately and information could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Staff are aware, however, that the most effective and economical form of travel should be used. Taxis should therefore be used only in the most exceptional circumstances, and only if the expenditure can be justified.