asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if there are any plans to make use of private consultants in relation to (a) the Government data network system and (b) the police national computer; and if he will make a statement.

The procurement of a Government data network is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Private consultants are used from time to time in relation to the Police National Computer in particular specialised areas, but only where the necessary expertise is not available within my Department. There are no plans for the use of private consultants in any other circumstances.