To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what were the conclusions of the fundamental expenditure review of the investigation division of Customs and Excise national investigation service on (a) the preferred location of the regional office to serve the Hampshire area and (b) the need for a fast response team to serve the Hampshire area. [36946]
[holding answer 16 July 1996]: The fundamental expenditure review carried out on the investigation and intelligence functions of HM Customs and Excise recommended
The FER proposed eight or nine regional offices with a headquarters in London, but was not explicit about the location of the regional offices.The FER also stated:"the creation of a National Investigation Service organised in regions".
"The process of "fast response" to detections by AS (Anti-Smuggling) staff will be streamlined to offer the immediate attendance of investigations to add value to every case where possible".
In the case of the central south coast area of England, the investigative first response team will almost certainly be based in Shoreham.
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what expenditure has been incurred on seeking office accommodation for a regional office of the national investigation service in Hampshire. [36947]
[holding answer 16 July 1996]: No expenses has been incurred in seeking office accommodation specifically in Hampshire. Minimal expenses has been incurred at national and regional level, in seeking options for accommodation to house the NIS staff, including those in the central south coast area.
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what sum was allocated for the acquisition of offices for a regional office of the national investigation service in Hampshire. [36948]
[holding answer 16 July 1996]: No funds were specifically earmarked for any regional office. Implementation of the FER recommendations will take place using funds from the Department's capital allocation.
To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the proposed location of the nearest regional office and fast response team of the national investigation service to parts of Portsmouth and Southampton. [36949]
[holding answer 16 July 1996]: The nearest NIS office and first specialist investigator response team will almost certainly be located in Shoreham.