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Written question asked by Sam Carling (Labour) on Thursday, 3 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 7 September 2026. It was answered by Nick Smith (Labour) on Monday, 14 September 2026 on behalf of the House of Commons Commission.

Members' Constituency Work: ICT

Question

To ask the hon. Member for Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, representing the House of Commons Commission, what assessment the Commission has made of the potential impact of Parliamentary Digital Service permissions for third-party casework management systems on competition between suppliers; and what steps it is taking to ensure that such permissions do not unnecessarily restrict competition or increase costs to the public purse.

Answer

The Parliamentary Digital Service (PDS) recognises the important role that digital tools, including casework management platforms, play in supporting Members and their staff in serving constituents effectively.

Many such tools require integration with Parliamentary IT services, including email and other systems. This integration must be managed carefully to protect Parliamentary and constituent data and maintain the security of Parliamentary systems.

Access is currently available to only a limited number of suppliers, reflecting arrangements that were established to meet operational needs at the time.

As the market for casework management tools has evolved, PDS is actively working to enable secure integration arrangements in a way that supports Member choice and creates a level playing field for suppliers. This includes trialling the technology that would facilitate this integration, as well as developing minimum standards for suppliers in areas such as cyber and information security.

The House Administration keeps its approach under review and is engaging with Members, their staff and suppliers to ensure the appropriate balance between security, functionality and competition.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
27148
Session
2026-27
Subjects
ICT Costs Competition Members' constituency work Parliamentary Digital Service
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk