Ms Clare McGrath:

Accommodation has been reduced by 1.2 million sq. ft. We now face the issue of optimising existing space as the bulk of our accommodation is owned but in need of considerable investment. When it comes to density of occupation by employees, this accommodation is not good. As I said, all Ministers and Departments are driven to increase density and use space more efficiently. There should be a commensurate reduction in space. We need investment to refurbish our owned estate to allow for increased density, where possible. Departments have been very engaged in this programme. When a lease is surrendered, it is the case that additional floor space is required - people occupy the surrendered leased space and require to be rehoused in owned estate. We have increased density in owned estate. I suggest the amount of floor space released is greater than the number of reductions, but we are seeking to exploit capacity in owned estate. We are employing new working methods, using open plan spaces and increasing densities. Occupiers are working with us in this process, although it presents challenges.