§ Mr. David Watkinsasked the Secretary of State for Defence what offset arrangements are proposed in the Trident missile system contract for the provision of gauges and tools by British manufacturers.
§ Mr. SpeedThe transfer of a strategic weapon system such as Trident is a very different issue from a conventional arms purchase. In the circumstances, when the agreement was negotiated, it was not appropriate to press for specific offset arrangements.
Procurement of the submarine itself, the tactical weapon system and propulsion plant, together with the supporting facilities—which comprise over 70 per cent. of the Trident costs—will be undertaken by British industry. Any gauges and tools required for this large element of the programme should be provided by British manufacturers.