To ask the Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills how many of his Department's staff who left under (a) an involuntary and (b) a voluntary exit scheme in each year since it was established received a severance package of (i) up to £25,000, (ii) £25,001 to £50,000, (iii) £50,001 to £75,000, (iv) £75,001 to £100,000 and (v) over £100,000; and if he will make a statement. (242253)

In the Department, there have been seven early releases in 2007-08, at a total cost of £512,000 and two in 2008-09 at a total cost of £90,000. There are currently no early releases planned for 2009-10.

Information on individual voluntary exit scheme payments to staff for each year is not available in the form requested and could only be obtain at disproportionate cost.

There have been no compulsory releases.