§ Mr. CranTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what progress is being made in his Department's review, with Treasury guidelines, of the potential for the further relocation of Civil Service posts outside London and the south-east; and when he expects the review to be completed.
§ Mr. Alan ClarkThe most significant element of MOD relocation planning has revolved around two major groups within the procurement executive.
The proposed move of 1,500 quality assurance posts from Woolwich and Bromley to Teesside was announced in the House on 9 March 1989. Consultations are continuing with the trade union side about the move, which would take place over the period 1993–95.
A feasibility study report of relocating some 3,500 posts in the land and air systems controllerates is currently with Ministers. Given reasonably early agreement on site selection, the effective date for these moves could be in the timescale 1993–95.
Additionally, a number of smaller moves, totalling about 1,000 posts from London, have been agreed (and some have taken place) since the 1988 relocation initiative.
The MOD will continue to pursue a policy of relocating work from London and the south-east to less advantaged regions whenever possible and the TU side will continue to be consulted on all relocation studies.