HC Deb 22 December 1988 vol 144 c376W
Mr. Thorne

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the implications for competition in defence procurement of GEC's proposed bid for the Plessey company.

Mr. Sainsbury

The MOD is examining the implications for competition in defence procurement of the proposed bid by GEC and Siemens for the Plessey company, and I have no comment to make at this stage.

Mr. Thorne

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representation has been made to his Department by GEC in connection with their proposed bid for the Plessey company.

Mr. Sainsbury

In examining the defence procurement implications for the proposed bid by GEC and Siemens for the Plessey company, we would, of course, listen to any representations from the parties involved. Any such discussions would be confidential to the parties concerned.

Mr. Roy Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to ensure that the independence of Plessey's defence operations will be effectively preserved under GEC/Siemens bid plans.

Mr. Sainsbury

The MOD is considering all aspects of the proposed bid by GEC and Siemens for the Plessey company, and I have no comment to make at this stage.