§ Sir David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Defence how long has now elapsed since he first received the tenders for the two type 22 frigates to determine which warship builders should receive the orders; when he expects to award the contracts; and what factors have caused the delay.
§ Mr. LeeTenders for the two ships were originally invited in July 1983 and were received in October of that year. As I announced on 24 July, the tenders lapsed before a decision could be reached. The Government therefore decided to seek new tenders for these vessels. These have now been received and are being considered. As I said on 24 July, at columns 814–15, we hope to place orders before the end of the year.