HC Deb 11 June 1968 vol 766 cc34-5W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Technology what is his policy in relation to the use of holding contracts in his relations with industry in the field of defence procurement.

Mr. Benn

To keep them to a minimum. In the year ending 30th June, 1967, only one holding contract was placed; this was because a careful review of policy was necessary before it could be decided whether to proceed with the project in question or not. Two other holding contracts were in existence at the same date because of continuing contractual negotiations on the proposed follow-on contracts.