§ 18. Mrs. Ray MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to discuss with the Deputy Prime Minister the proposed closure of the Oban coastguard station and matters relating to maritime safety in the area. [104945]
§ Mr. WilsonMy right hon. Friend is in regular contact with the Deputy Prime Minister on a wide range of issues including matters relating to maritime safety and coastguard stations. Substantial investment in new digital technology will allow a more responsive service to be provided from fewer centres. Oban will not close until October 2000 and Pentland will not close until December 2000 when the new equipment will be installed and the staff trained. There will be no compulsory redundancies.