Hydrographic Office (Hansard, 11 January 1994)

§ Mr. David Nicholson
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has had on the risks to the Hydrographic Office's operational capability if companies receiving contracted-out work go out of business; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Hanley
Other than in discussions between staff and management, no such representations have been received.

§ Mr. David Nicholson
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what targets for financial savings he envisages as a result of introducing market testing procedures into the Hydrographic Office.
158W

§ Mr. Aitken
The agency's market testing programme is at the feasibility stage; it is too early to predict the level of savings which may arise.

§ Mr. David Nicholson
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has had regarding the future of long-term planning at the Hydrographic Office if market-tested functions go to tender every three years; and if he will make a statement.

§ Mr. Aitken
No such representations have been received other than in discussions between management and staff. Long term planning will continue to be the responsibility of the HO management board, and will be necessary in the context of its role as an integrated Government agency and the national centre of hydrographic expertise.