§ Mr. GillTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to close regional service centres; and if he will make a statement. [116264]
§ Ms Quin] [holding answer 23 March 2000]: No decisions have yet been taken on the future of the Ministry's regional service centres (RSCs) following the recent review of CAP scheme administration, which was commissioned to help us identify the best way to improve the service we offer to farmers and traders eligible to claim CAP payments, taking full advantage of the benefits offered by modern technology.
We are now considering, in the context of the spending review 2000, how best to restructure MAFF's RSCs and the Intervention Board Executive Agency. Any major restructuring will only be possible if funding can be made available.
My right hon. Friend the Minister has made it clear that he will not implement the recommendations of the review unless he is satisfied that we will be able to deliver real improvements in the service which MAFF and the Intervention Board currently provide to farmers and traders, as well as reductions in the cost to the taxpayer of administration of CAP payments.
We are also taking forward plans to align MAFF's other regional activities, particularly on rural development, with the Government Offices for the Regions. This will ensure that we are able to work effectively with other regional partners including the regional development agencies.