Written question asked by Angus Brendan MacNeil (Scottish National Party) on Wednesday, 2 June 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 7 June 2010. It was answered by Peter Luff (Conservative) on Tuesday, 8 June 2010 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Hebrides Missile Range

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will offer QinetiQ an incentive to generate business at the Hebrides Range.

Answer: [holding answer 7 June 2010]: The Long Term Partnering Agreement (LTPA) with QinetiQ, which covers the operation of the Hebrides Range and other facilities, already provides for commercial usage by third parties. Nonetheless, it is recognised that further, appropriate, incentivisation could help QinetiQ to attract more work of this kind. However, we must also ensure that in doing so we comply with our EU Treaty obligations and avoid any state aid. These are complex issues, but my officials are working to develop an incentive regime for all LTPA facilities, which would meet these criteria.

Secondary information