To ask the Secretary of State for Justice how many (a) printers and (b) multi-function devices with printing functions were in use in each division of his Department and its predecessor in each of the last five years; how many such devices had a function enabling two-sided printing; and if he will make a statement. (269613)

Multi-functional devices (MFDs) and printers with double-sided print capability offer potential cost savings to the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) and its agencies. There are also significant environmental and efficiency benefits to be gained through the reduction in volumes of paper used.

To deliver these benefits and reduce overall people to printer ratios, a programme to rollout MFD printers across the organisation is under way. So far, MFD printers with double-sided printing capability have been installed throughout our main headquarter sites and key regional offices.

In addition, a print optimisation project to rationalise the printer estate has been initiated. The intention is to reduce overall numbers of printers, enhance printing efficiency and sustainability. This includes replacing existing printers with double-sided printing devices and standardisation of print models.

As at March 2009, the following information has been provided from available central records for MOJ Headquarters, Her Majesty's Courts Service (HMCS), Tribunals Service and associated offices:

Printers

HO and Associated Offices:

Approximately 1,300 printers (390 with double-sided printing capability)

HMCS (including Tribunals Service):

Approximately 13,200 printers (3,960 with double-sided printing capability)

Multifunctional devices (MFDs)—all with double-sided printing capability

99 at 10 London sites and five other regional sites.

Detailed information for years prior to the formation of the Ministry of Justice in 2007 is not available centrally and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

National Offender Management Service (NOMS, including HMPS)

2004: 16,567 printers (8,598 with double-sided printing capability)

2005: 17,185 printers (9,290 with double-sided printing capability)

2006: 13,875 printers (9,976 with double-sided printing capability)

2007: 10,397 printers (9,081 with double-sided printing capability)

2008: 10,762 printers (9,651 with double-sided printing capability)

This information is based on the potential of the printer to deliver double-sided printing.