Defence Diversification

HC Deb 27 October 1993 vol 230 cc700-1W

Mr. Llew Smith

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what is the Government's policy on defence diversification.

Mr. Aitken

The Government's policy is that decisions on how to adapt to changing market circumstances, and what products to make, are for the commercial judgment of companies.

The Department of Trade and Industry provides advice and assistance to companies who may be considering diversification, including a recently published handbook called "Changing Tack". That Department, together with the Department of Employment, also administers the United Kingdom participation in the EC KONVER programme, which is designed to assist regions affected by the decline in the armaments industry and the closure of military bases.