Mr. Alan Lee Williamsasked the Secretary of State for Defence when he intends to announce his plans for economies in the Army's logistic base in the United Kingdom referred to in the 1975 Statement on Defence Estimates; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownWe have now completed a review of Army logistic establishments in the United Kingdom. It has shown that we can close or reduce some of them in order to concentrate our logistic effort while still effectively supporting the Army in the field. This will make important economies in defence spending through a substantial reduction in staff requirements. We shall consult the Ministry of Defence Staff and Trade Union Sides through the Whitley machinery about the effects on civilian staff before final decisions regarding these measures are announced. Meanwhile our detailed proposals are described in a memorandum prepared for the purpose of consultation. Copies of this memorandum are available in the Vote Office.