§ Dr. CableTo ask the Chairman of the Information Committee what estimate he has made of the savings to public funds which could be generated by the central provision of information technology services and equipment for hon. Members' offices. [77932]
§ Mr. AllanLast year, the Information Committee conducted an inquiry into options for provision of IT services and equipment for Members. The Committee's report (HC, 1998–99, 76) was published on 18 December 1998. The Committee did not find convincing evidence for savings to public funds from central provision of IT. It did receive evidence that more value could be gained from the same investment if there were more co-ordination of purchases. It therefore recommended that a catalogue of standard equipment should be negotiated with suppliers and made available to Members. This catalogue is now in preparation and is expected to be published before the summer recess.