§ Mr. Hooleyasked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what are the composition and terms of reference of the Hydrographic Strategic Review Body; and if he will list the names and qualifications of his members;
(2) how often the Hydrographic Strategic Review Body meets; and if it will publish any report, conclusions or findings.
§ Mr. DuffyThe present composition of the Hydrographic Strategic Review Body is as follows:
Chairman: Mr. R. M. Hastie-Smith, Assistant Under-Secretary of State (Naval Staff), Ministry of Defence. Members: Appropriate representatives of: Her Majesty's Treasury Department of Energy Department of the Environment Ministry of Defence Department of Trade Ministry of Overseas Development Its terms of reference are:
To review strategically the national programme of hydrographic surveying.It met for the first time on 12th May 1976, will meet not less frequently than once a year, and will provide a valuable forum for relevant interdepartmental discussion. The non-Government interests in the programme are taken into account through consultations prior to meetings of the review body. I do not envisage that it will publish reports, though its work may be reflected in ministerial decisions of which the House will be informed as appropriate.