§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of State for Defence whether he is now able to make a statement on the Government's policy of purchasing defence equipment from British firms, where available, in preference to firms from overseas, irrespective of costs comparison; when this policy is to commence; and to what extent Great Britain's entry into the European Economic Community will affect these arrangements so far as purchases from the 10 members are concerned.
§ Mr. Ian GilmourIt is Government policy as far as practicable to procure defence equipment at home or in collaboration with our Allies. Our entry into the European Economic Community will not alter this and should increase the opportunities for mutually beneficial co-operation.