§ Mr. Sproatasked the Secretary of State for Defence, in the light of his statement on 20 January on defence spending, if the order for two minesweepers, placed with Hall Russell, in Aberdeen, will now go ahead.
§ Mr. SpeedNo order for minesweepers has been placed with Hall Russell Ltd. Tenders from a number of shipbuilders, including Hall Russell, were submitted last year, and a decision on these vessels will be made as soon as possible.