Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether his agreement with Royal Ordnance for the supply of explosives, propellants and ammunition includes any conditions relating to the maintenance of reserve capacity in Royal Ordnance factories.
§ Mr. Sainsbury[holding answer 25 November 1988]: The agreement relates only to the requirement for Royal Ordnance to deliver to the MOD, at annually reducing prices, specified quantities of ammunition in the fiscal 267W years prior to March 1993. I am satisfied that Royal Ordnance is capable of meeting our foreseeable requirements, supplemented by other supplies as necessary.
Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many times he has discussed the retention of specific manufacturing capabilities with the management of Royal Ordnance since it was sold.
§ Mr. Sainsbury[holding answer 25 November 1988]: None. We await the outcome of the Royal Ordnance rationalisation plans.