§ 68. Mr. LathamTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what progress is being made with his consideration of the report of the consultants into the future of dog training at the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, Melton Mowbray; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeubertThe Peat Marwick McLintock study into future arrangements for canine and equine-related training in the services has recommended that the Ministry of Defence should vacate and sell the land at Melton Mowbray currently occupied by the RAVC and set up a service animal centre at RAF Syerston, encompassing canine and equine-related training, and allied functions, and using RAF Newton for administrative/domestic support. I am minded to accept the recommendation that a service animal centre should be formed embracing the existing separate service establishments.
498WThe choice of site may, however, be affected by a current study into the future of the whole RAF estate including RAF Newton and RAF Syerston. In any event, as a result of the Peat Marwick McLintock study, some land at Melton Mowbray has been identified for disposal, whether or not the service animal centre is established there. We shall be exploring the possibility of the development of the site with the local planning authority. An announcement on the long-term location of the service animal centre will be made as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, we are implementing other recommendations made by the consultants concerning the common adoption of best practices, in preparation for the formation of the joint centre. This is expected to save at least £4 million in running costs over the next 10 years. The proposals for the formation of the joint centre are consistent with Government policies on the optimum utilisation of the defence estate, and the introduction of more efficient practices in those areas working in support of the operational capabilities of the armed forces.