HC Deb 27 February 1984 vol 55 cc84-5W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why he has decided to purchase Goalkeeper naval air defence systems from Hollandse Signaalappareten; and what account he took when reaching his decision of measures to offset imbalances in North Atlantic Treaty Organisation spending.

Mr. Lee

The Government's decision to procure Goalkeeper close-in weapon systems for the Royal Navy's batch III Type 22 Frigates was taken after a careful examination of the results of a competitive tendering exercise, which considered perfomance, technical and cost factors, and in which Goalkeeper emerged as a front runner. The decision also took account of other relevant factors including industrial considerations and formed part of an agreement with the Dutch whereby they will procure Rolls Royce Spey engines for their new "M" class frigates. This agreement will contribute substantially to interoperability and standardisation of equipment within NATO.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why he has decided not to purchase the Sea Guard naval air defence system; and what account he took when reaching his decision of measures to offset inbalances in North Atlantic Treaty Organisation defence spending.

Mr. Lee

I refer the hon. Member to my reply to his question about Goalkeeper. Seaguard was not selected for the Royal Navy batch III Type 22 frigates because it was evaluated as being inferior to Goalkeeper on performance, technical and cost grounds.

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