To ask the Secretary of State for Justice pursuant to the answer of 27 January 2009, Official Report, columns 379-80W, on official cars, how many of the cars (a) owned and (b) leased by (i) his Department and (ii) its agencies are over six years old. (276775)

The following table outlines the number of owned and leased cars used by the Ministry of Justice that are over six years old, by engine capacity.

Life expectancy for owned cars, particularly in the Prison Service, can be extended beyond average fleet age if recorded mileages are low and the condition of the vehicle has been maintained. The decision to retain any vehicle will be taken after a review of whole-life costs and operational requirements.

Modern diesel powered vehicles with extended service intervals are capable of recording high mileages, reliably and cost effectively. Consideration of the environmental impact from emissions associated with these older vehicles will also be taken into account.