IT Refreshment Scheme

Dr. Pugh
To ask the Leader of the House what the total cost is of the IT refreshment scheme to replace and install new computers for hon. Members; and how much of that cost is to be spent on (a) implementing, installing and administering the scheme, (b) leases of equipment and (c) licensing of software.

Mr. Straw
The cost of Members’ IT installation and upgrade programme is borne mainly on the House of Commons: Members Estimate; but some costs are borne on the House of Commons: Administration Estimate which is the responsibility of the House of Commons Commission. The maximum estimated cash costs expected to be paid from the Members Estimate are:

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|                                                             |Amount|
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|Administration costs including surveys, storage and porterage|749   |
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|Installation charges                                         |646   |
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|Equipment costs                                              |3,085 |
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|Software costs                                               |1,188 |
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The figures are provisional at this stage, as they depend significantly on the choices Members themselves make about the amount, type and location of the equipment they require.

I understand that the costs borne on the Administration Estimate cannot easily be disaggregated from the other running costs of the Parliamentary ICT Service.

Dr. Pugh
To ask the Leader of the House what percentage of hon. Members have had their leased equipment replaced under the IT refreshment scheme; and if he will list the hon. Members concerned.

Mr. Straw
58 per cent. of Members have now received their new equipment. The IT refresh project is being undertaken in phases, and all Members will have been given an opportunity to refresh their equipment before the summer recess, provided forms are returned and survey and installation dates are agreed as set out in the guidance issued to Members. Equipment is loaned and not leased to Members and whether Members choose to use their allowance or not is a matter for them.