HC Deb 12 December 2001 vol 376 cc938-9W
Mr. Watson

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how many, and what make and model of cars have been purchased by each Government Department since 1997. [21988]

Mr. Leslie

There is no centrally held record of all cars that have been purchased by all Government Departments since 1997. The Government Car Service has purchased the following cars since 1997, including cars purchased on behalf of the Cabinet Office:

Make and model Number purchased
Ford Mondeo 76
Ford Galaxy 3
Vauxhall Omega 59
Vauxhall Vectra 78
Vauxhall Astra 15
Rover 400 7
Rover 45 9
Rover 800 9
Rover 75 5
Land Rover Discovery 1
Jaguar/Daimler 10
Nissan Primera 9
Peugeot 607 1
Toyota Prius 1

Mr. Watson

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what guidance is given to Government Departments on the purchase of car fleets. [21986]

Mr. Leslie

There is no specific central guidance issued on the purchase of car fleets. However, Government Departments have to be satisfied that they are achieving value for money and that they comply with European Union regulations on public procurement.

The purchase or hire of cars and other vehicles is subject to the Suppliers Directive (93/36/EC as last amended by Directive 97/52/EC). Together with the relevant Remedies Directive (89/665/EEC) the Suppliers Directive has been given effect in the UK by the Public Supply Contract Regulations (SI.1995/201, last amended by SI.2000/2009). Compliance with these Regulations will also fulfil the purchaser's obligations towards suppliers from third countries pursuant to the EEA Treaty, various Europe Agreements and the WTO Government Procurement Agreement. The current threshold is £93,896 and there are rules that require recurrent purchasers to be considered in aggregate over a governed period for the purpose of applying the threshold. Government Departments and other public bodies are responsible for complying with the regulations. The commission will follow up complaints of non-compliance with the member state concerned and may initiate proceedings under Article 226/EC. In the UK interested suppliers harmed or at risk of harm from the breach of the rules can seek interim or final remedies in the High Court (Court of Session in Scotland) which may lead to an interim or final injunction or the award of damages.