To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what was the total paybill for all Special Advisers for 1996–97; what is the projected figure for (a) 1997–98 and (b) 1998–99; and if he will make a statement. [14103]

The total paybill for 1996–97 was £1.8 million. The estimated paybill for 1997–98 is £2.6 million. The estimated total paybill for 1997–98 covers various posts, including the Standards and Effectiveness Adviser to the Department for Education and Employment, the UK anti-drugs co-ordinator and his deputy, which are not covered by the earlier paybill figure.No projected figures are available for future years.