Written question asked by Alan Simpson (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 May 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 5 June 2006. It was answered by Lord Browne of Ladyton (Labour) on Tuesday, 7 November 2006 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Atomic Weapons Establishment

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many (a) scientists, (b) engineers and (c) technicians the Atomic Weapons Establishment is planning to hire over the next five years; and in what areas of expertise.

Answer: Based upon current contract assumptions, AWE plc is planning to recruit in the order of (a) 60 scientists, (b) 180 engineers, and (c) 50 technical support personnel in each of the next two years. The areas of expertise are diverse, and will include chemistry, computer science, materials science, nuclear physics, chemical engineering, decommissioning and waste management, civil engineering, manufacturing, metallurgy, electrical and electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, assurance, laboratory support and IT/telecommunications. The company has indicated that it has not formulated any firm plans for recruitment beyond this period.

Secondary information