§ Mr. Nicholas BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what changes have been made to the best and final offer accepted from VSEL in respect of the landing platform helicopter carrier since 11 May 1993; and what is the reason for any subsequent adjustments.
§ Mr. AitkenVSEL has contracted to provide a vessel which meets the Department's requirements as set out in the procurement specification. As the design progresses, it is normal for alterations to the details of the specification to be discussed. These discussions are still ongoing and any changes to the specification will be rigorously controlled to ensure that cost estimates are not exceeded and value for money is achieved. My Department is not renegotiating the contract with VSEL.