Social Security Benefits: Employment

Danny Alexander
To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how much the Government has spent on developing the Better Off Calculation system; and if he will make a statement.

Caroline Flint
The administration of Jobcentre Plus is a matter for the Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus, Lesley Strathie. I have asked her to provide the hon. Member with the information requested.

Letter from Leslie Strathie, dated 23 January 2008:

The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your question asking how much the Government has spent developing the Better Off Calculation system. This is something that falls within the responsibilities delegated to me as Chief Executive of Jobcentre Plus.

The Better Off Calculator system was developed from an existing stand alone system. The initial software development costs were £1.77 million. Several developments have taken place since. Over the last two financial years we have spent £590,000 (2006-07) and £813,000 (2007-08) in maintaining and enhancing the system.

I hope this is helpful.