asked the Minister for Labour the expenditure in his Department on information technology equipment, on the engagement of consultancy firms for information technology projects and on direct computer personnel staffing costs in each year from 1986 to 1988, inclusive, and the projected amount for 1989: and the extent to which the management grades in his own Department are involved in the development and use of information technology.
Written Answers. - Information Technology.
150.
The expenditures on information technology equipment, consultancy firms for information technology projects and direct computer personnel staffing costs in the years 1986 to 1988 are as follows:
|
1986 |
1987 |
1988 |
|
|
£ |
£ |
£ |
|
|
Equipment |
343,000 |
269,000 |
309,000 |
|
Consultancy |
91,000 |
48,000 |
Nil |
|
Staffing |
Nil |
16,500 |
18,100 |
The projected expenditure in 1989 on information technology equipment is £240,000. It is not expected that there will be any expenditure incurred on consultancy for information technology in 1989. In relation to direct staffing costs, the post of systems manager in my Department is vacant since mid-January. A competition has been arranged and my Department expect to fill the systems manager vacancy later this year.
When computer systems have been installed, managers assume responsibility for their operations. That responsibility can include development work.