Written question asked by Steve Webb (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 11 July 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 July 2001. It was answered by Malcolm Wicks (Labour) on Thursday, 19 July 2001 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Dept for Work and Pensions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if he will make a statement on the three BAMS contracts awarded to SEMA with particular reference to their impact on (a) management and investment in BAMS, (b) the delivery of service improvements to customers including speedier appointments and reduced waiting times, (c) the maintenance and improvement of quality of service and (d) the value for money offered to the taxpayer. - (Holding answer 16 July 2001).

Answer: Mr. Webb: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will make a statement on the three Benefits Agency Medical Services contracts awarded to SEMA with particular reference to their impact on (a) management and investment in BAMS, (b) the delivery of service improvements to customers including speedier appointments and reduced waiting times, (c) the maintenance and improvement of quality of service and (d) the value for money offered to the taxpayer. [4404] Malcolm Wicks: [holding answer 16 July 2001]: All contracts awarded by the Department give due regard to value for money and quality of service. They are kept under continuous review to ensure that throughout the lifetime of the contract targets are met. The contracts awarded to SchlumbergerSema include targets on the length of the time taken to clear cases and reduce waiting times.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 4404; 372 c418W;372 c419W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Contracts Cost effectiveness Investment Management Standards Benefits Agency Medical Service Sema Group
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk