§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is his Department's policy concerning the creation of joint project offices for European procurement collaborations.
§ Mr. FreemanThe management arrangements for each collaborative defence equipment programme are considered on their merits, with our partners, on a case by case basis. Where there is judged to be the most effective approach, a joint project office may be established.
§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is his Department's policy concerning the use of capability and cost to determine a country's share of work in joint European procurement collaborations.
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§ Mr. FreemanIn negotiations with partners in a collaborative programme, the Department takes into account a number of factors relating to workshares, on a case-by-case basis, consistent with the aim of obtaining value for money. The Department believes that this aim is best achieved by maximising competition in the programme, allowing companies in each partner nation the opportunity to win work on technical and commercial merit.