§ Dr. VisTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans there are for the future of the Millbay Territorial Army Centre in Plymouth; and if he will make a statement. [44481]
§ Dr. MoonieAs part of the Strategic Defence Review Territorial Army restructuring process we decided to close the Millbay Territorial Army Centre (TAC) in Plymouth and relocate the units there to the other TAC in Plymouth at Derriford.
We have now reviewed those plans in the light of the estimated cost of the move and the impact that the closure of the Millbay TAC would have on the ability of the TA to recruit and retain personnel in Plymouth. I am pleased to say that, as a result of this review, I have decided that Millbay TAC should remain open. This is excellent news for the city of Plymouth and will allow it to retain a modern TAC. By keeping both TACs open we also aim to enhance the visibility of the TA with the general public and improve recruiting opportunities.