§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how much was spent by her Department on stationery in(a) 1995–96, (b) 1996–97, (c) 1997–98, (d) 1998–99, (e) 1999–2000, (f) 2000–01 and (g) 2001–02; what suppliers were used in each of those years, and how much was spent per supplier; what tender processes were undertaken, and what the frequency was of the processes; and if she will make a statement. [61380]
§ Dr. HowellsBefore 1998–99 no record was kept of the cost of specific office supplies such as stationery. The cost of stationery, in 1998–99 was £130,000, in 1999–2000 £136,000, in 2000–01 it was £128,000 and in 2001–02 £101,000. Stationery is purchased from a single supplier to achieve best value from volume purchasing. Contracts for the supply of goods and services are all subject to competitive tender and those for the supply of goods are normally for a period of three years, the last commencing in April 2001.