Written question asked by Teddy Taylor (Conservative) on Monday, 13 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 27 November 2000. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Monday, 27 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 new ranges in Shoeburyness. - Inc figures and ref to 20 March 2000, 346 c716-17.

Answer: Sir Teddy Taylor: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the new ranges in Shoeburyness. [138599] Dr. Moonie: The Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) is continuing to work with SERCO Ltd. to rationalise the new ranges estate and to introduce new businesses which are able to co-exist with the continuing range activities. For example, the engineering workshop has been leased to a company which has successfully attracted new engineering work and the main office block will have a number of new tenants shortly including a catering training establishment. As mentioned in my answer on 20 March 2000, Official Report, columns 716-17, other possible businesses include an innovative agricultural process for producing fruit and vegetables which could lead to 1,000 new jobs. DERA and SERCO will continue to work closely with both Southend Borough and Rochford District Councils on preparing the 10 year development plan for the introduction of new commercial activities on to the site. Public consultation will be a key feature in taking forward any proposals.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 357 c418W; 138599
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Business Engineering Job creation Manufacturing industries Defence Evaluation and Research Agency Firing ranges Serco Shoeburyness
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk