Written question asked by Lord Cunningham of Felling (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 27 February 1997. It was answered by Lord Arbuthnot of Edrom (Conservative) on Thursday, 27 February 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: When he expects to receive the DERA study on the future of the Eskmeals and Shoeburyness ranges; and if he will make arrangements for the report to be made publicly available.

Answer: Dr. John Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to receive the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency study on the future of the Eskmeals and Shoeburyness ranges; and if he will make arrangements for the report to be made publicly available. [17674] Mr. Arbuthnot: An interim report was completed by DERA at the end of January. It did not make firm recommendations for the closure of either Eskmeals or Shoeburyness but suggested further detailed work into how the costs of the Defence Test and Evaluation Organisation land ranges might be reduced. Given the report's interim nature, I do not believe it appropriate for publication at present, but as soon as DERA has completed consultations with its MOD customers on the implications of the proposals, DERA intends to publish a consultative document setting out the options and proposing a way ahead. This will be circulated to DERA staff, trade unions and those with an interest. I expect to approve the release of this document within the next few weeks.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 17674; 291 c370-1W
Session: 1996-97
Subjects: Defence Costs Closures Weapons Testing Defence Evaluation and Research Agency Government research establishments Firing ranges Shoeburyness Eskmeals