§ Mr. George HowarthTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how much his Department has spent so far on the Quantum project; and what benefits it has produced in terms of providing(a) updated technology, (b) increased efficiency and (c) better quality of information; and if he will make a statement. [2121]
§ Beverley HughesThe cost of the Quantum project to July 1998 (when it was suspended) was £8.3 million. The procurement recommenced in February 1999 and led to award of contract to Electronic Data Systems (EDS) 12 months later. Initially, EDS took responsibility for all existing Prison Service information technology and telecommunications services. From the recommendations to date, some £44 million has been spent by the Prison Service on Quantum. This includes payments to EDS for the provision of information technology and telecommunications services.
428WUnder the terms of the Quantum agreement, EDS is responsible for updating the information technology and telecommunications infrastructure technology and telecommunications infrastructure of the Prison Service. This involves, among other things, installation of standard office computer software and equipment. The new infrastructure will be the technological platform for future business change projects and for delivering the benefits associated with improving efficiency and the quality of information.