§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 14 June,Official Report, column 475–76, if he will publish a detailed and declassified analysis of the factors that have influenced his consideration of the need to retain a viable and effective defence industry when making procurement decisions; what information sources he uses when considering the 546W need to retain a viable and effective defence industry; and what staff in his Department are involved in his considerations of the need to retain a viable and effective defence industry.
§ Mr. AitkenThe importance of retaining a viable and effective defence industry is self-evident. It is in the United Kingdom's defence interest that there should be a commercially strong supplier base, able to compete effectively to provide good value for money in meeting the requirements of the armed forces for equipment and services. The success of the United Kingdom defence industry in overseas markets also has direct and indirect benefits for my Department; and the industry is a major employer.
We gather information on the defence industry from many sources. These include industrialists themselves in their frequent contacts with all levels of my Department; representations made on their behalf, including those from hon. Members; the trade associations, with which there are regular contacts; and our dealings with other Government Departments.
Advising on the implications for industry of individual procurement decisions is one of the tasks of project staff throughout my Department's procurement executive. In addition, it is one of the responsibilities of the central staff of the procurement executive to provide advice on matters affecting the defence industry.