HC Deb 09 March 1988 vol 129 c218W
Mr. Brazier

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether NATO has yet launched its proposed study into the Alliance's ability to meet its needs for merchant shipping in times of emergency or war; and when he expects the study to be completed.

Mr. David Mitchell

I have been asked to reply.

NATO is proposing to invite tenders from consultants to carry out the study under the organisation's international competitive tendering procedure. I under-stand the aim is to complete the study by September 1989.