§ Mrs. Anne CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what action he is taking to ensure that smaller firms are not deterred from applying for Ministry of Defence contracts. [81693]
§ Dr. MoonieThe Ministry of Defence recognises the importance of smaller firms in driving innovation and contributing to the delivery of defence capability. The Defence Industry Policy paper published in October 2002 recognised the need to invest in early technology de-risking to stimulate continued improvement and innovation across the defence supply chain.
Defence contract opportunities are advertised through publications such as the MOD Defence Contracts Bulletin and the official journal of the European Community (OJEC). MOD's Defence 8W Suppliers Service (DSS) and Defence Diversification Agency (DDA) provide information and assistance to smaller firms interested in becoming defence suppliers.
The MOD also works with the Department of Trade and Industry and its Small Business Service (SBS) to maintain awareness of initiatives aimed at harnessing innovation. In autumn 2001 a joint MOD/Industry Code of Best Practice was published covering relationships at all levels within the supply chain including those with smaller firms.