To ask the Scottish Executive, further to the answers to questions S1W-19680 and S1W-19681 by Angus MacKay on 19 November 2001, whether it will consider relocating civil service jobs to Argyll and Bute in the foreseeable future.

Two objectives govern relocation decisions. First, the location of organisations should promote efficiency and effectiveness. Second, subject to the first objective, the work of the Scottish Executive and related bodies should be close to the communities they serve. When relocation is being considered, no parts of the country are targeted, nor are any ruled out. Each relocation decision is viewed on its own merits and a decision is taken about where each organisation should be situated, based on the relevant factors in each case. Argyll and Bute will continue to be considered as a potential area for relocation.