§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether, in placing orders for the last two Type 42 destroyers, he was satisfied that the vessels would be built at the least cost by the two chosen yards rather than by other firms.
§ Dr. GilbertThe two most recent orders for Type 42 Destroyers were placed earlier this year after competitive tendering. I am satisfied that neither ship could be obtained more economically to the required timescale had the orders been placed elsewhere. In placing orders, against the background of our stated warshipbuilding policy, we take account of a number of factors including price, timely completion of the vessel, the capacity and past performance of shipbuilders, and the contractual terms offered.