§ Mr. BurnsTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what the total cost of running the Department's press office was in(a) 1996–97 and (b) the latest year for which figures are available. [46809]
§ Mr. LeslieThe total cost of running the Department's press office in 1996–97 was £933.000.00 and £1,430,000.00 in 2000–01.
The figure has risen steadily over the years largely due to the increased range of Cabinet Office activity and responsibilities related to increases in ministerial posts and setting up new units. This in turn has resulted in increased communication activity.