Vol. 550 No. 2
230 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance his views on the issues raised in correspon dence (details supplied) regarding the move to semi-State status of the Ordnance Survey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8241/02]
I received the letter in question on Thursday, 28 February and will reply formally to it shortly. It concerns the vesting day for the new OSI, the appointment of a board and discussions with the staff. I signed an order on 27 February setting 4 March 2002 as the vesting day for the new OSI. I have also appointed a board which includes a prominent trade unionist. No commitment was given to specific consultations with OSI trade unions on this appointment. Because of these developments I consider it neither necessary nor desirable to rescind the vesting day order. As regards discussions between management and staff, I understand that the major issues have been resolved and that discussions are continuing within OSI on some of the details. I am confident that there is sufficient goodwill on all sides to resolve any residual issues.
