HC Deb 23 November 1995 vol 267 cc238-9W
Mr. Hawkins

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the forthcoming prior options reviews of MAFF research establishments. [2474]

Mr. Douglas Hogg

The Government announced on 29 September 1995 that all public sector research establishments would be subject to prior options reviews, and that a timetable would be made available shortly.

The Central Science Laboratory, Horticulture Research International and the Directorate of Fisheries Research will be reviewed immediately. The R and D conducted by ADAS will be reviewed on the same timetable. The Veterinary Laboratories Agency will be reviewed between early next year and July 1996.

MAFF establishments will be reviewed alongside establishments parented or sponsored by other Government Departments which are carrying out work in similar or related fields.

Comments from interested parties would be welcome. These should be sent to:

  • T. D. Rossington
  • Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
  • Room 806
  • Nobel House
  • 17 Smith Square
  • London
  • SW 1P 3JR

Comments on the Central Science Laboratory, Horticulture Research International, the Directorate of Fisheries Research and ADAS research and development should be sent by 8 January 1996. Comments on the Veterinary Laboratories Agency should be sent by 1 April 1996.