§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Defence what are his plans for the future of the wind tunnels at the Royal Aircraft Establishment, Farnborough in the context of reduced activity at the establishment.
§ Mr. PattieIn following up the Strathcona review of R and D establishments, and in the context of the Government's continued search for greater efficiency, a number of studies are now in hand at R and D establishments to determine the practical scope for the involvement of contractors in the provision of technical and domestic support services. One such study concerns the future operation of wind tunnels at Farnborough and Bedford. The study will consider future patterns of use and the availability of specialist operating and maintenance expertise. This study is in its early stages and I cannot anticipate its outcome at this time. Arrangements for consultation with the appropriate parts of industry and with staff interests are in hand.