§ Mr. FatchettTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the criteria used for determining the successful bid in relation to the role of the Portland naval base; and if he will make a statement. [22547]
§ Mr. SoamesThe criteria used to select the successful purchaser for Portland naval base were complex. A number of bids were shortlisted and then evaluated by the marketing agents, specialist advisors and officials. There was wide consultation at local level with various agencies including the borough and county councils, South Dorset Economic Partnership and the trade unions at the naval base.
The party finally selected was the one with the best proven track record to date, with viable commercial proposals that had financial backing, the best prospect of providing jobs and the best chance of obtaining planning permission for the proposed uses. The purchaser, Portland Port Ltd., has a strong management team and the resources to call on several marine oriented companies in the UK elsewhere. I believe that the company offers the best long-term solution for local people and reuse of the naval base.