HC Deb 06 May 1981 vol 4 cc87-8W
Mr. George Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will publish a White Paper on the options available, and the issues concerned, for the new generation of heavyweight torpedo.

Mr. Speed

No. On the grounds of both security and commercial sensitivity, this subject is not one that could be suitably addressed in a. White Paper.

Mr. George Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will arrange for hon. Members of the House to have a presentation, similar to that provided for Defence staff and civil servants on 13 March, of the two bidders for the contract for the new generation of heavyweight torpedo.

Mr. Speed

No. The presentations were made by the firms concerned to the prospective purchasing department. They included commercially sensitive information at the discretion of the firms. Members are free to make their own contacts with the firms concerned.