Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when companies were asked to bid for the contract to replace the Abbot self-propelled howitzer; how many bids were received; when the last bid was received; and when he expects to announce the replacement order.
§ Mr. SainsburyA request for quotations for 155 mm self-propelled howitzers was issued to industry in December 1986. Responses were received last year from four companies, but it was necessary to seek further information and revised proposals from some of the companies involved. These revised proposals were received in January this year. Regarding the way ahead, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Berkshire, East (Mr. MacKay) on 8 June 1988, at column586.