§ Mr. Simsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultations he has held concerning the proposal to move the Laboratory of the Government Chemist to West Cumbria; whether the change of location will affect the extent to which his Department uses the Laboratory's services; and what proportion of samples sent to the Laboratory by his Department would continue to be sent there after the move to the new location has been effected.
§ Mr. ShoreDiscussions have been held with the Laboratory of the Government Chemist on the effect of re-location on the advisory and analytical services it provides to DOE. On re-location, it is estimated that expert representation on certain technical committees and working groups, which currently involves some 60 man-days per annum, might require a further 60 man-days to cover the additional travelling. There would be a reduction estimated at about 15 per cent. on the proportion of samples sent for analysis.