Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of his decision to relocate more jobs in Blackpool through the North West Estate Defence Business Services consolidation plans on the local economy of Blackpool.

The decision to consolidate the Defence Business Services northwest estate was based on qualitative benefits and through life costs of potential sites based on several factors including operational risk, sustainability, and compliance with key user requirements.

A regional economic impact assessment was undertaken during down selection, but did not form part of the decision making criteria. The consolidation into the Blackpool region brings an opportunity to bring circa 700 posts to Blackpool from our other northwest sites, and contributes to the redevelopment at Talbot Gate through the building of the new Government hub.