§ 24. Andrew Selous (South-West Bedfordshire) (Con)What the Cabinet Office policy is on buying British goods. [166192]
§ The Minister for the Cabinet Office and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Mr. Douglas Alexander)In line with Government policy, my Department bases all procurement decisions on value for money. Information on nationality of companies is recorded only for contracts subject to EU advertising procedures. During 1999–2002 eight such contracts were advertised, of which seven were awarded to British suppliers.
§ Andrew Selousrose—[Interruption.]
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. Once again, the Chamber must be quiet to allow the question to continue.
§ Andrew SelousThere are unemployed motor workers in my constituency following the closure of the Vauxhall plant. Will the Minister explain why 80 per cent. of ministerial cars an not made in Britain?
§ Mr. AlexanderThe United Kingdom produces more cars than ever before. Procurement laws apply not only to this Government but to all previous Governments, which explains our decisions.