To ask the Prime Minister what steps she is taking to improve Civil Service procedures so that in future they can manage the Government data network; and whether she has plans to raise salaries to ensure that the Civil Service can attract the necessary skills.

The service to be provided by the Government data network is to be managed and provided by Racal Data Networks Ltd. I am satisfied that the Departments which join the network, and the Treasury, can make satisfactory arrangements for their responsibilities in relation to the operation and development of the GDN.