To ask Her Majesty's Government what grades of officials in the Northern Ireland Officer are allowed to use hire cars; what are the criteria for such use; and who makes the decision on such use. [HL3375]

The use of hire cars, self-drive or with driver provided, is based on business need and not grade.

All business travel arrangements for staff below grade A must be authorised in advance by a more senior officer of at least middle manager (grade B2 or above). Senior managers (grade A and above), can authorise their own travel arrangements with the assistance, where necessary, of the central travel booking team which offers advice on best value options.

During 2007-08, the department adopted a policy to make greater use of taxis rather than private hire cars where it is more cost-effective. This policy has led to an increase in taxi costs but has generated estimated whole year net savings of £150,000.