§ Sir Nicholas BonsorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what military purpose 20 truck mounted 12 tonne cranes are to be purchased as set out in future purchase No. LV1A/260; what consideration he has given to leasing or contract hire of cranes; and if he will make a statement. [22523]
§ Mr. FreemanThe 12 tonne cranes will be procured as replacements for existing RAF equipments that have reached the end of their economic lives. They will be used in aircraft maintenance and workshop areas within operational RAF stations. The provision, management and support of service transport is at present being reviewed to determine whether, and to what extent, there is scope for greater private sector involvement. The primary aim of this review is to secure greater value for money. We intend to establish some pilot leasing schemes this calendar year. Tender LV1A/260 therefore reflects the present procurement arrangements, but any resultant contract will be placed for the minimum quantity required in the financial year 1995–96, with options only for future years.
§ Sir Nicholas BonsorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what military purpose approximately 100 all-wheel drive pick-ups, vans and 11 seat station wagons are required, as set out in tender No. LV2A/265; what consideration he has given to leasing or contract hire; what consideration he has given to extending the number of companies invited to tender; and if he will make a statement. [22524]
§ Mr. FreemanThe all-wheel drive vehicles will be procured as replacements for exiting Navy, Army and RAF equipments that have reached the end of their economic lives. They will mainly be used to transport stores and personnel, both on and off road. The provision, management and support of service transport is at present under review to determine whether, and to what extent, there is scope for greater private sector involvement. The primary aim of the review is to secure greater value for money. We do not intend to establish a number of pilot leasing schemes this calendar year. Future purchase tender LV2A/265 therefore reflects the present procurement arrangements, but any resultant contract will be placed for the minimum quantity required in the financial year 1995–96, with options only for future years. The final distribution of tenders will depend solely on companies registering an interest against this advertisement. The future purchase tender identifies two companies. They were the only companies known to meet the Department's required quality standard.