To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what percentage of bills presented by private organisations to (a) HM Treasury and (b) HM Revenue and Customs were paid within (i) 10 days, (ii) 20 days, (iii) 30 days, (iv) 60 days and (v) 90 days in the last period for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement. (80642)

The Treasury aims to pay all invoices within contractual conditions or 30 days from the receipt of goods or service, whichever is the later. We monitor performance against the 30 day target. Further analysis could be undertaken only at disproportionate cost.

For the 12 month period ending 31 March 2006, 94.7 per cent. of undisputed Treasury and Debt Management Office invoices and 99.5 per cent. of undisputed Office of Government Commerce invoices were paid within 30 days. HMRC settled 98.8 per cent. of invoices within 30 days of receipt of goods or service.

Improving payment performance continues to be a priority and is reported in the relevant resource accounts.