CONFIDENTIAL
2ND DRAFT
constraints on the Army's normal levels of activity, due to fuel
restrictions and the lack of maintenance items, 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 Defence
Estimates in 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. Possible mention of deployments in
the context of the Defence Review 7. 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, this year
the replacement supply Automatic Data Processing system becomes
operational and will progressively take over the functions of the
Depot computers, permitting the elimination of many routine clerical
tasks.
37. A new Controllerate of Engineering and Supply was set up on
1 November 1973, and Royal Air Force Engineering and Supply staffs
at Ministry of Defence Headquarters have been integrated under one
Controller to provide for the co-ordinated management and development
of the Royal Air Force Support Organisation. Further studies are exam-
ining the extent to which management can be improved by integrating Engineering and Supply staffs at Command Headquarters and Royal Air Force stations.
Logistic Support
38. The Royal Air Force is using the international collaborative
aircraft programme as a further means of cutting Royal Air Force support
costs. The principle of inter-dependant logistics is being followed in
developing the support arrangements for the Multi-Role Combat Aircraft.
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