§ Sir Nicholas BonsorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what military needs three rough terrain wheeled tractors are required as set out in the future purchase No. EM and D1A/152; what consideration has been given to leasing the equipment; what information he has as to the availability of such equipment on the civil market; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanThe three rough terrain wheeled tractors in future purchase No. EM and D1A/152 will be deployed in the Falkland Islands and used for the handling and movement of International Standards Organisation containers on semi-trailers. Vehicles that meet the military specification for this requirement are not currently available for leasing or immediate purchase on the civil market.
§ Sir Nicholas BonsorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what military needs it was decided that 13 rough terrain container handlers were required; what 687W consideration was given to leasing the equipment; what information he has as to the availability of such equipment on the civil market; why the tender has been cancelled; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanRough terrain container handlers are used to handle International Standards Organisation containers on operations and during major exercises in the field. Vehicles that meet the military specification of this requirement are not currently available for leasing or immediate purchase on the civil market. The tender has been delayed to modify the specification and broaden the scope of potential bidders; it will be reissued.