Written question asked by Lord Campbell-Savours (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 19 November 1996. It was answered by Michael Jack (Conservative) on Tuesday, 19 November 1996 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: What alternatives to overseas support for the protection of Inland Revenue data against operational risk of a shut down or slow down of the self assessment system were examined by Ministers prior to revision of the Oracle contract. - (Holding answer 11 November 1996). I considered all alternative technical support arrangements, but note provided the degree of protection that is required.

Answer: Mr. Campbell-Savours: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what alternatives to overseas support for the protection of Inland Revenue data against operational risk of a shut down or slow down of the self-assessment system were examined by Ministers before revision of the Oracle contract. [1635] Mr. Jack: [holding answer 11 November 1996]: I considered all alternative technical support arrangements, but none provided the degree of protection that is required.

Secondary information