§ Dame Joan Vickersasked the Secretary of State for Defence in view of the fact that H.M.S. "Sea Eagle" was to be moved to Plymouth, what are the reasons for the change of plan; and whether he proposes bringing any other establishment to Plymouth in view both of the loss of approximately 80 jobs and also revenue to the city.
§ Dr. David OwenThe decision to locate the Joint Anti Submarine School at Portsmouth instead of Plymouth was taken on grounds of economy and efficiency. Integration of the Joint Anti Submarine School with the Tactical School at Portsmouth will save staff and over £3 million in equipment and buildings. The number of jobs which would have gone to Plymouth was less than 80, we estimated it at about 50. As regards other establishments I would refer the hon. Member to the announcement of the closure of St. Vincent and the building up of H.M.S. "Raleigh" as the naval junior training establishment of the future. This will further enhance the naval commitment in the Plymouth area.