Written question asked by Robert Key (Conservative) on Monday, 15 March 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 17 March 2010. It was answered by Bill Rammell (Labour) on Thursday, 25 March 2010 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

RAF Coningsby

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what reasons the provision of the fast jet test and evaluation advice was transferred from Boscombe Down Airfield to RAF Coningsby.

Answer: The transfer of most fast jet test flying and some evaluation activities, including 11 military and three QinetiQ posts, from Boscombe Down to RAF Coningsby is expected to result in a range of time, cost and performance benefits across Defence, including the more efficient use of flying hours, and an enhanced ability to meet the requirements of the front-line user, through the integration of developmental and operational test and evaluation activity.

Secondary information