Bis Sheffield/Government Departments Outside London

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 5:26 pm on 9 May 2016.

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Photo of Alex Cunningham Alex Cunningham Shadow Minister (Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) 5:26, 9 May 2016

I am really interested in this idea of policy people having to be at the centre. The Department argues that the move will bring BIS policy operations closer to Ministers and contribute to the huge saving of £350 million of running costs. However, the “Government’s Estate Strategy” states:

“With modern IT, officials no longer necessarily need to be physically present, for example to brief ministers. Having offices on the periphery will also encourage local growth and regeneration.”

That is the Government’s own strategy. Does my hon. Friend not detect a conflict there?