HC Deb 01 November 1983 vol 47 cc328-9W
23. Sir David Price

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is now in a position to award a contract for a type 22 frigate to the Vosper Thornycroft shipyard in Southampton.

Mr. Lee

As was envisaged by my predecessor on 12 May 1983—[Vol. 42, c. 472]—we have obtained tenders for two further type 22 frigates of the batch III design from Vosper Thornycroft, Cammell Laird and Swan Hunter shipbuilders. These responses are being evaluated and we hope to announce a decision shortly.