§ Sir Nicholas BonsorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what reason he has decided not to proceed with the market-test initiative on the management and supply of small arms spares; and if he will make a statement. [18799]
§ Mr. FreemanThe market test of management and supply of small arms spares was withdrawn from full competition because of insurmountable intellectual property rights and critical item manufacture problems. However, the market testing process has identified changes in procurement processes which, once introduced, will lead to efficiency savings.