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Dept for Culture Media and Sport

Answer

Mr. Flight: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how often since 1997 (a) her Department and (b) its associated public sector organisations have undergone portable appliance testing of IT equipment; and what the cost was of portable appliance testing in each year since 1997. [176572] Mr. Caborn: The Department does not hold detailed historical information for portable appliance testing and costs. The last test of portable items was conducted in 2002 but did not include computers replaced that year and those due for replacement in 2003. This year the Department will be conducting tests on all portable electrical appliances. The contractor for this work will be chosen on a competitive basis. A budget sum of £4,500 has been allowed for testing of all equipment including computers. Royal Parks Agency The Royal Parks undertake portable appliance testing of electrical equipment, including IT equipment, annually at a cost of £1,500 per annum. IT equipment comprises 62 per cent. of all electrical equipment, resulting in an annual spend of £930 on portable appliance testing of IT equipment. Since 1997 and including committed funds for 2004, this totals £7,440. In accordance with published guidance and best practice, The Royal Parks intend hereafter to portable appliance test IT equipment at two-year intervals only. In respect of the Department's non-departmental public bodies, the information requested could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

176572; 422 c48-9W

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Costs Executive agencies ICT Government departments Equipment Electrical safety Testing Department for Culture, Media and Sport

Contains statistics

Yes

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk