Written question asked by Julian Lewis (Conservative) on Tuesday, 21 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 28 November 2000. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Tuesday, 28 November 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make a statement on the proposed relocation of Royal Navy fixed-wing pilots from Yeovilton to the Midlands and on feedback from service families in relation to this proposal.

Answer: Dr. Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the proposed relocation of Royal Navy fixed-wing pilots from Yeovilton to the Midlands and on feedback from service families in relation to this proposal. [140127] Mr. Spellar: As a result of the Strategic Defence Review decision to create Joint Force Harrier, Sea Harrier squadrons (and support staff) from RNAS Yeovilton will transfer to RAF Stations Cottesmore and Wittering in 2003. Relocation briefings have been given to Service and civilian personnel and their families. Informal feedback to date from these briefings indicates interest in schooling opportunities, the availability of Family Married Quarters, house prices and opportunities for work in the local area. The intention is to continue this form of communication with those involved to ensure their family relocation is made as smooth as possible. In addition, a questionnaire has been sent to all personnel earmarked for transfer. The anonymous results of this will be analysed by early spring.

Secondary information