§ Mr. RogersTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans exist for the purchase of tractors capable of transporting light armoured vehicles.
§ Mr. SainsburyThere are no plans at present to purchase tractors for transporting light armoured vehicles. The purchase option will however be considered when the arrangements for meeting this requirement in BAOR are reviewed later this year.
§ Mr. RogersTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what consultations have taken place between his Department and the company currently leasing Mercedes tractors to the British Army of the Rhine regarding their availability in the event of hostilities.
§ Mr. SainsburyAgreement in principle has been reached with the company leasing Mercedes tractors to BAOR regarding their availability in the event of hostilities. Consultations are continuing on the terms of the amendment of the contract to cover this aspect.