Clothing and Textile Authority

HC Deb 18 October 1994 vol 248 cc182-3W

Mr. Brazier

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the Defence Clothing and Textile Authority.

Mr. Soames

The Defence Clothing and Textile Authority, comprising some 540 staff, is currently located at seven main sites across the country. Following an examination of the business structure of the DCTA and investment appraisal, it has been concluded that collocation on a single site will allow the introduction of new business methods. The resulting efficiencies should lead to a streamlined structure and savings of up to 117 posts.

I have therefore decided to accept, as the basis for consultation with the trades unions and other interested parties, the recommendation that staff from the existing sites be collocated on one site at Caversfield, Bicester, currently part of the RAF Bicester site. Final decisions will be taken only in the light of representations made during the consultation period. A copy of the consultative document is being placed in the Library of the House.