§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Defence how he intends to apply his Department's interim payments policy as between large and small firms; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LeeMy Department's intention in introducing a revised interim payments policy is to provide a greater incentive for contractors, both large and small, to complete their contracts in a timely and satisfactory manner. Nevertheless, the policy will be applied flexibly, and the interim payment arrangements on individual contracts will take into account a number of factors including, where appropriate, the particular interests of small firms.