To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much his Department and its agencies have spent on rooms for staff leisure in each of the last five years. (324425)

The Northern Ireland Office (NIO) and its Agencies have spent the following amounts on rooms for staff leisure, including fitness facilities and equipment, in each of the last five years;

The NIO in 2009-10 spent £1,582.26, and in 2008-9 spent £7,614.24. There was no expenditure in the previous three years.

The NI Prison Service in 2008-9 spent £2,015.13, and in 2007-8 £9,621.83. There was no expenditure in the other years.

Expenditure on fitness facilities and equipment, including shower facilities, is seen as contributing to the promotion of good health amongst staff.