§ 31. Mr. Foulkesasked the Secretary of State for Defence what has been the result of his consideration of small ship orders which might be accelerated.
§ Mr. LeeMy right hon. Friend has carefully examined the possibility of bringing forward any small ship orders by MOD which would be suitable for bidding by Ailsa yard, but he has found none which could be offered before autumn 1987 at the earliest. A preliminary inquiry has been issued to shipbuilders who may wish to tender for up to four fleet minesweepers.