Question

To ask the hon. Member for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross representing the House of Commons Commission, what the cost has been of (a) fees to recruitment agencies, (b) travel and (c) all other costs incurred in the process of appointing the new Clerk of the House culminating in the selection of Carol Mills.

The costs incurred in the recruitment process for the Clerk of the House and Chief Executive were as follows:

(a) A fixed fee of £18,000 to Saxton Bampfylde for recruitment support and executive search services;

(b) A total of £10,244.26 in travel, hotel and subsistence costs incurred by applicants invited for interview;

(c) A total of £8,952 for recruitment advertising.

Costs are shown exclusive of VAT, except for travel and subsistence where VAT was inclusive and has been reimbursed by the House.