§ 19. Mr. Galleyasked the Secretary of State for Defence what proportion of the defence procurement budget was spent with British companies in 1985–86.
26. Mr. Andy Stewartasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the total cost of equipment and services purchased by his Department in 1985–86 from British companies.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonIn 1985–86, just over 90 per cent. of the MOD's gross equipment expenditure of some £8.5 billion was spent with British companies, or on collaborative projects from which United Kingdom industry benefitted as a participant.
§ 43. Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Defence what procedures exist for appeals or for investigation of complaints about his Department's decisions on procurement and the protection of research and development products; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonIt is the Ministry's policy to treat all companies in a scrupulously fair and impartial manner. Any company which is unsuccessful in a competitive tendering may seek a de-briefing from the Ministry. More generally any company which considers it has a complaint about a procurement decision should first raise the matter with the staff responsible for the procurement. If that action does not resolve the complaint, it should be referred as appropriate to a more senior level.
The Ministry respects the ownership of intellectual property rights in its procurement. If use is made of a patented invention the patentee is notified as soon as practicable and terms are agreed for its use.