§ Mr. KeetchTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to transfer test pilots from DERA's Aircraft Test and Evaluation Sector at Boscombe Down to RAF Strike Command; and if he will make a statement. [112450]
§ Mr. Spellar[holding answer 1 March 2000]: The test pilots who support the work of DERA's Aircraft Test and Evaluation Sector at Boscombe Down are currently administered and line managed by RAF Personnel and Training Command. From 1 April 2000, this 710W responsibility will be transferred to RAF Strike Command. This recognises that most of the test pilot output of the Aircraft Test and Evaluation Sector is in support of RAF Strike Command.