§ Mr. ColvinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence on what grounds his Department has selected Sundstrand of Rockford Corporation Illinois to supply gas-powered turbine engines for Spearfish torpedoes; what was the nature of the competition for this programme; which United Kingdom contractors were invited to tender; what offset arrangements have been agreed; and if he will make a statement. [18705]
§ Mr. FreemanThe choice of Sundstrand as engine supplier was made by GEC-Marconi in 1981 as the designers of Spearfish. The only competitive alternative was also of US manufacture. The intention had been fully to compete the main production order of the torpedo, including the engine under licence, but the declining numbers required has meant this has not proved to be feasible. However, maximum competition at the subcontractor level was implemented instead. Some 25 per cent. in value of the engine was competed between three UK contenders and Microturbo of Fareham was successful.