To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many non-pensionable bonuses were awarded to members of staff in his Department in the last 12 months; and at what total cost. (226420)

There were 809 non-pensionable bonuses awarded to staff in the last year, at a cost of £2,423,701.

Special bonuses can be awarded to any member of staff in recognition of work beyond their normal range of duties. Annual bonuses are paid to staff who are members of the senior civil service (SCS), based on the extent to which objectives are met, how they are met and how stretching they are. The figures provided cover special bonuses for the year from 1 October 2007 to 30 September 2008, and annual SCS bonuses awarded in 2008.