§ Mr. Kevan JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the status is of the partnering agreement between the MOD and Royal Ordnance; and if it is his policy to guarantee indigenous supply of ammunition. [33025]
§ Dr. MoonieThe Framework Partnering Agreement between BAE Systems RO Defence and the Ministry of Defence was signed in December 1999 and has been running successfully for two years. During this period both sides have met their commitments. The policy relating to the supply of ammunition ensures that the ammunition is safe and suitable for use, and provides both value for money and security of supply.
§ Mr. Kevan JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with BAE Systems concerning the closure of ROF Birtley. [33024]
§ Dr. MoonieThe Ministry of Defence has held no direct discussions with BAE Systems on the future of the RO Defence (ROD) site at Birtley. The MOD is aware that ROD is conducting a review of its manufacturing strategy and this review includes the options for the Birtley site. It is expected that the outcome of this review will be announced at the end of February 2002.
§ Mr. Kevan JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received on Royal Ordnance's policy relating to the TACAS project and the supply of hardware from indigenous bases. [33026]
§ Dr. MoonieI am not aware of any representations being made to the Ministry of Defence on Royal Ordnance's policy relating to the Tubed Artillery Conventional Ammunition System (TACAS) project. The TACAS project has only just entered the assessment phase. RO Defence, as the assessment phase prime contractor, is reviewing possible solutions, from a worldwide range of sources, to meet the TACAS requirement. On current plans, a decision on the way forward is not expected to be made until autumn 2004.