§ Mr. Clifton-BrownTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what plans the Government have for the future of the custody service. [34726]
§ Mr. FreemanThe custody service is part of the Security Facilities Executive. I have been considering its future in the light of a report from consultants, and the views of customers, and have concluded that the custody service should be privatised. I believe that privatisation will secure the long-term interests of the taxpayer, as well as the staff and customers of the business.
The custody service is primarily involved in the provision of manned guarding services to Whitehall Departments. The majority of its customers have said that they would be content for the private sector to provide these services. Once the business has been sold, it will be free from Government operating constraints and will be able to offer services to new customers in wider markets.