§ Mr. MooreTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how much is being spent on the new computer system at the Central Office of the Contributions Agency in Newcastle; and when it(a) was originally and (b) is currently expected to be fully operational. [64853]
§ Mr. TimmsIf Andersen Consulting were to process anticipated volumes of the new National Insurance Recording System (NIRS2) the budget for the financial year to 1 April 1999 is expected to be £5.301 million. The 221W base annual service charge for NIRS2 over the next three years is budgeted at £6.850 million per annum. This amount is subject to volumes of work processed and also any charges for agreed enhancements to the system.
The original contract allowed for the delivery of the system over 3 releases between February 1997 and April 1999. A subsequent Deed of Amendment was agreed in July 1996, which allowed for a phased delivery of the first release. NIRS2 Release 1 is expected to be fully operational by April 1999.