HC Deb 07 September 2004 vol 424 cc938-9W
11. Tony Worthington

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the dispersal of Government jobs to Scotland. [187636]

Mr. Darling

Decisions about the relocation of jobs within Government Departments have yet to be made but will be based on Departments' operational needs and individual business cases rather than the particular needs of specific areas or geographies. However, I have made quite clear to other Government Departments the advantages Scotland offers as a location.

13. Mr. Donohoe

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the impact of the Lyons review in areas in Scotland not named in the King Sturge report; and what active role his Department is taking towards public sector job relocation to Scotland. [187638]

Mr. Darling

Decisions about the relocation of jobs within Government Departments have yet to be made but will be based on Departments' operational needs and individual business cases rather than the particular needs of specific areas or geographies. However, I have made quite clear to other Government Departments the advantages Scotland offers as a location and have encouraged them to consider Scotland when reviewing relocation plans.