§ Mr. SpellarTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with the United States Government on the implications for the United Kingdom defence industry of "Buy American" clauses inserted in the most recent Department of Defence budget. [7140]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotThe provisions of the Buy American Act are waived for UK defence equipment in accordance with the US-UK defence co-operation memorandum of understanding signed in January 1995. Frequent representations are made at all levels to the US Administration and Congress to convey Her Majesty's Government's concern that such provisions damage the prospects for defence co-operation between the US and its allies. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence expects to raise the matter when he visits Washington in January.