Microsoft deal with Becta kept quiet

The Register tells us that a deal between Becta (The British Educational Communications and Technology Agency) and Microsoft over the licenses for Microsoft products at schools has been shrouded in secrecy as a confidentiality agreement has been signed to prevent information being revealed on the cost of the licenses.

Hold on a second, isn't this my taxpayer's money that's paying for these licenses? Why the secrecy if the software is "real value for money" as Microsoft's Steve Beswick tells us?

Schools minister Jim Knight said:

"This information is the subject of legally binding non-disclosure arrangements and excludes estimates in relation to Original Equipment Manufacturer licences."