§ Mr. Bestasked the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the privatisation of refurbishment of naval vessels.
§ Mr. LeeNo plans, as such, exist at present. In accordance with our policy of promoting competition as widely as possible, however, we are examining proposals for a greater involvement of the private sector in warship refitting. We are also arranging for the refits of a frigate and a conventional submarine by contract, starting later this year.