§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he proposes to announce the result of the "Competing for Quality" competition at RAF Sealand, Deeside, Flintshire; and if he will make a statement.[8826]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotMy right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, the then Minister of State for Defence Procurement, announced on 18 October 1994,Official Report, column 237, his intention to undertake a "Competing for Quality" programme for all activities at RAF Sealand. After a hard-fought competition, I can now announce that the in-house bid team has been selected, against two commercial bidders, and that my Department intends to enter into a service level agreement with the team, beginning in April next year. The competition has resulted in significant savings and will safeguard the important role of RAF Sealand in providing crucial support to the front line. I congratulate the in-house team on the imagination and hard work shown in putting together the winning bid.