DPF Briefing

January 2002

QinetiQ

General Secretary, David King, has written to Defence Minister, Lewis Moonie, highlighting DPF concerns over plans to replace MDP with security guards at three QinetiQ sites: Shoeburyness; Pendine; and West Freugh.

This follows an earlier meeting held with MoD and QinetiQ officials to discuss the withdrawal proposals and seek an extension of the consultation beyond

November 2001 until Federation concerns had been properly addressed especially in relation to matters affecting local Home Department Forces and HSE.

The outcome of this meeting was unsatisfactory and it was felt that the issues needed to be drawn to Ministers attention. Dr Moonie has agreed to meet with DPF once the Department is in a position to formally respond to the points raised. Meanwhile the consultation process remains open.