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Hong Kong.
A trial is planned to take
place shortly on the use of small mobile computers at inventory
points within brigades. The development of a computer-based system
in support of overseas sales continues. A feasibility study in
the use of computer output on microfilm is well advanced and it is
expected that the introduction of this facility early in 1976 will
achieve worthwhile savings in paper and distribution costs.
Availability of Spares
35. The flow of spare parts from industry has been significantly
reduced as a result of its difficulties over the past year.
Vehicles have therefore been used less to conserve stocks. Since
operational maintenance in, for example, Northern Ireland could
not be stinted, economies have had to be made principally in
training. These constraints on the Army's normal levels of activity
are likely to continue in the immediate future.
THE ROYAL AIR FORCE SUPPORT ORGANISATION
Economy in Support Costs
36. The major review of Royal Air Force manpower and support
requirements, mentioned in Chapter V of the Statement on the Defence
Estimates 1973 (Cmnd. 5231), has already resulted in a saving
of some 8,000 Service and civilian posts and should lead to further
reductions during 1975-76. The present review, together with
various studies directed towards minimising supply and maintenance
costs, forms part of a continuing process to maintain the most
cost-effective support organisation. For example, the
replacement supply ADP System becomes operational in 1975 and will, by
1977, have taken over the functions of individual depot computers.
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