§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what provision is made for re-training those Navy personnel who have lost their jobs; and if he will make a statement. [19158]
§ Mr. SoamesNaval personnel who leave the service on redundancy are eligible for resettlement training and advice to help them prepare for, and find suitable employment in, civilian life. Typically, this includes: an interview to assess experience and qualifications, and consider future employment and training options; up to four week's pre-release training or individual resettlement preparation either at a tri-service resettlement centre or civilian college or university, or an attachment with a prospective employer; and a wide range of career and personal counselling. The individual may also register with the services' employment network which provides a computer-based job-matching service.
We believe that resettlement services for members of the Royal Navy are comprehensive and effective and note that the independent review by Mr. Bett has made some 304W recommendations in this area which will be studied carefully.
§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many of those naval personnel who have lost their jobs in the last five years have subsequently gained employment outside the service; what steps his Department takes to monitor the extent to which staff are re-employed elsewhere; and if he will make a statement. [19161]
§ Mr. SoamesAlthough information is not held in the form requested, tri-service surveys show that 80 per cent. of ex-service personnel are either in employment or retraining within three months of discharge.
Surveys are conducted to evaluate the success of tri-service resettlement provision. These surveys include questions about employment gained. In addition, the Royal Navy has conducted its own study into attitudes and experiences of those who have recently left the service. More detailed and longer-term monitoring of leavers in all three service is being introduced.