HC Deb 07 February 1989 vol 146 cc795-6
12. Mr. Meale

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the latest procurement plans for the EFA radar system.

Mr. Sainsbury

A report by the prime contractor is currently under consideration by NEFMA, the international management agency for the EFA programme, and by the collaborating nations. I would hope that a decision on the winning consortium could be made early this year.

Mr. Meale

Will the Minister comment on the specification and supply of EFA radar systems—[HON. MEMBERS: "Reading"]. Will he ensure that his decision will not prejudice Britain's electronics and radar industries—[HON. MEMBERS: "Reading"]—research base, and— [Interruption.]

Mr. Speaker

Order.

Mr. Sainsbury

I regret to say that, whether or not it was read, I was unable to hear the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question.

Mr. Meale

rose—

Mr. Speaker

Order. We must get on. Questions to the Prime Minister.