HC Deb 09 February 2004 vol 417 cc1174-5W
Mr. Soames

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) how many companies are in negotiations with the Ministry of Defence over the Colchester Garrison Private Finance Initiative agreement; [153518]

(2) how long negotiations for the Colchester Garrison Private Finance Initiative agreement have been taking place. [153517]

Mr. Caplin

As I announced on 3 February 2004,Official Report, column 30WS, the Ministry of Defence has reached agreement with RMPA Services plc to redevelop and operate Colchester Garrison under a Private Finance Initiative. RMPA Services plc are a consortium, comprising Sir Robert McAlpine, W. S. Atkins plc, Sodexho and HSBC Infrastructure. Negotiations with the consortium commenced in October 1999 when they were appointed preferred bidder.