§ Mr. Robert McCartneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what studies his Department has undertaken on the relative costs of employing(a) civilian and (b) military personnel in Northern Ireland, and on average salary differentials; and if he will make a statement on the factors which underlie decisions on this matter. [21436]
§ Dr. ReidThere have been no specific studies recently on this topic in Northern Ireland. The military and civilian manpower mix in MOD establishments in Northern Ireland is kept under review to provide the most cost-effective use of personnel. Depending on the nature of the work in question a range of factors will be taken into account, not just cost.
§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many servicemen and women are currently in receipt of income support; and if he will make a statement. [21649]
§ Mr. SpellarThe information requested is not held by MOD. Should any Service Personnel be eligible for Income Support, which is unlikely in view of the qualifying criteria, a claim would be made directly to the Department of Social Security.