QinetiQ gives commitment over Malvern site
1st September 2010
International defence giant QinetiQ has confirmed its long-term commitment to Malvern.
The company announced the news at a high-level meeting with West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin and local authority chiefs.
Harriett called for the meeting after the company announced two tranches of redundancies to hit the Malvern site.
And the chief executives of Worcestershire County Council and Malvern Hills District Council joined the meeting with senior executives from QinetiQ.
Harriett commented: “QinetiQ has been undertaking a widespread strategic review and although it is not yet completed, the team was able to assure us that the long-term future of the Malvern site is safe.
“I have had many letters expressing concern about the future of the site and I hope this puts that issue to rest.
“I was pleased that senior figures from the company and our local authorities were able to pull together to find a plan to help us make the most of the talented individuals who work for QinetiQ and its support companies.
“I have also been able to get outline support from the Government during this difficult time for the sector and I will be hoping to meet with a Minister to outline a more detailed action plan.”
Adam Palser, managing director of QinetiQ Technical and Information Services commented: “QinetiQ has a long heritage in Malvern and we are proud of our presence. However, we have to make Malvern work for us in the long term by building a sustainable business.”
He continued: "There are challenges ahead, including the Strategic Defence and Security Review and Comprehensive Spending Review, so we simply don't have clarity on the shape of our markets in the future but it's good to know that we have the full support of the governmental community here.”
Trish Haines, chief executive at Worcestershire County Council added: “QinetiQ is one of local government's highest priorities in terms of supporting our local economy, and we will do everything we can to help the company to maintain its presence in Worcestershire.”
