Around 250 CORGI employees are expected to TUPE transfer to Capita when the CORGI scheme ends on 31 March. Capita will manage registrations and renewals for the registration year starting 1 April 2009 from January 2009.

Pete Eldridge, Managing Director of Capita’s gas scheme commented: "Capita is delighted to have been chosen by HSE to run the new gas installer registration scheme. From April 2009, consumers and gas installers will have access to a responsive and efficient gas safety scheme. We’re looking forward to working in close collaboration with other industry bodies to raise standards and to continue to improve gas safety. We are committed to delivering an effective service that minimises the cost and administrative burden on installers and actively promotes the value of using registered gas installers."

Geoffrey Podger, Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Executive said, "I look forward to Capita bringing a fresh approach to gas safety. The new scheme should deliver added value for both consumers and gas installers through a reduction in fees and simplified registration procedures. Capita will be accountable for successful delivery through a challenging set of key performance indicators focused on delivering safe gas work and customer satisfaction with the scheme."

The new gas registration scheme will deliver:

• High levels of gas safety awareness amongst consumers aligned to a powerful new safety brand
• a risk-focused inspection force
• a single-minded focus on delivering the scheme and promoting gas safety
• a transparent, open and consultative approach
• a commitment to working with other industry bodies

CORGI Chief Executive, Mike Thompson said:

"We have been informed by the Health and Safety Executive that Capita has been confirmed as the preferred bidder to run the Gas Registration Scheme from April 2009. CORGI is naturally disappointed with the decision but will now work closely with the HSE and Capita to ensure a smooth transition process between scheme providers in the interests of gas safety.

"Capita is required to establish and promote a new gas safety brand. Beyond April 2009, the CORGI Group of companies will continue to provide a range of commercial services under the CORGI brand to financially support the CORGI Trust.

"It is worth reinforcing that this decision should have little or no impact on the day-to-day business of CORGI registered businesses. This decision affects the registration scheme only and will not impact on competence measurements such as the ACS scheme.

"Our focus now is to work with the HSE and Capita to maintain the profile of gas safety for installers and consumers, and to also provide guidance and support to the 300 or so current CORGI employees.