HL Deb 18 October 2000 vol 617 cc89-90WA
Baroness Park of Monmouth

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by the Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean on 21 March (WA 19) on the future of the Services Cotswold Centre, what is the present position; and, if the centre has been closed: (a) what alternative arrangements have been made; and (b) what savings were made as a result of the closure. [HL4056]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean: Her Majesty's Government reaffirm their high regard for the work of the Services Cotswold Centre on behalf of Army families. However, the centre remains under-utilised and is now the subject of an investment appraisal which will examine whether a solution exists which offers better value for money. This exercise should be complete by early December and will form the basis of a decision on the future of the centre by Her Majesty's Government. For the time being, the centre remains open and continues to provide temporary accommodation for Service families. I will write further to the noble Baroness once the position is clear, and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House.