§ Mr. GallieTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the future location of the rescue co-ordination centre Pitreavie and Air Officer Scotland and Northern Ireland. [18857]
§ Mr. SoamesAs a consequence of the "Front Line First" recommendation to close the maritime headquarters 1095W at Pitreavie by April 1996, it was originally intended to relocate the rescue co-ordination centre and Air Officer Scotland and Northern Ireland to RAF Leuchars. Subsequent studies have, however, identified that substantial operational advantages and cost savings would be gained by relocating RCC Pitreavie to RAF Kinloss, which would subsequently become the home for the new, single national military rescue co-ordination centre by 31 March 1997. The proposed relocation of RCC Pitreavie to RAF Kinloss, which would involve the transfer of 36 posts, 30 service and six civilian, will be subject to the usual process of consultation with the trade unions. AOSNI and his staff will relocate from Pitreavie to RAF Leuchars as originally planned, at which time the post will be combined with that of station commander.