HC Deb 25 January 1983 vol 35 cc399-400W
Mr. Moyle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what technical improvements in United Kingdom mapping he expects to achieve by financing the ordnance survey by means of a trading fund.

Mr. King

It is not intended that the method by which the ordnance survey is financed should, by itself, achieve technical improvements. However, the Government believe that efficiency and cost-effectiveness will be encouraged by the more commercial discipline of a trading fund, and that technical and other improvements will flourish in this environment.

Mr. Moyle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proportion of the proposed trading fund for the ordnance survey is likely to be provided by Her Majesty's Government contracts.

Mr. King

The contract between OS and the Department of the Environment by which OS will be financed for the cost of work commissioned in the national interest by Government represents about 55 per cent. of the annual revenue. OS also undertakes work on behalf of specific Government Departments. This accounts for about a further 10 per cent. of revenue each year.

Mr. Moyle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the advice given him by the Royal Geographical Society on his proposal to set up a trading fund for the ordnance survey.

Mr. King

Comments by the Royal Geographical Society on the proposal to set up a trading fund for OS were summarised in the report on the results of consultations presented to Parliament on 21 December. There will be an opportunity for the House to consider this report when the Ordnance Survey Trading Fund Order is laid.

Mr. Moyle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he expects improvements in the public accountability of the ordnance survey as a result of the establishment of a trading fund for the survey.

Mr. King

The spur provided by the pressures of operating under trading conditions is expected to result in a greater commercial awareness by OS managers. I am confident that this will yield a high standard of service to customers with efficiency and value for money in the use of public resources.