To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much staff at the Child Benefit Agency were paid in bonuses in the last 12 month period for which figures are available. (168943)

[holding answer 27 November 2007]: The Child Benefit Office employs around 1,200 people. The director of Child Benefit Operations recognises exceptional performance—including examples of excellent customer service—through a recognition bonus scheme.

The total value of bonus payments made to Child Benefit Office staff from December 2006 to November 2007 inclusive was £17,175.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the 10 largest bonus payments made to Child Benefits Agency staff were in the last 12 months for which figures are available. (168944)

[holding answer 27 November 2007]: The 10 largest recognition bonus scheme payments made to Child Benefit Office staff from December 2006 to November 2007 were as follows: