APPENDIX 13
Memorandum from the Ministry of Defence
concerning Air Surveillance and Control System (16 May 2000)
I am writing as promised to let you know of
my decision regarding the reduction from three to two Control
and Reporting Centres, which form part of the Air Surveillance
and Control System (ASACS).
As you know, we recently proposed that the number
of CRCs should be reduced from three to two, with either Buchan
or Neatishead being retained alongside RAF Boulmer. I deferred
a decision between these two Stations until all the issues raised
during consultation had been properly considered. This work is
now complete and taking all factors into account, I have decided
that RAF Neatishead will be retained as the main CRC, with a consequent
reduction in manpower at RAF Buchan. However, there will be a
delay, for technical reasons, in the implementation date, which
is now planned for completion by November 2004.
My decision was based on revised costing assumptions,
which took into account some of the useful points raised on behalf
of both Stations during consultation and resulted in an increased
financial advantage for RAF Neatishead over RAF Buchan. In addition,
an internal consultation exercise among ASACS personnel revealed
that 82% of respondents favoured the retention of RAF Neatishead
over RAF Buchan, including about 55% of those currently serving
at Buchan. Given that we are committed to increasing the welfare
and morale of personnel and taking into account the likely impact
on recruitment and retention, this was an important consideration.
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