§ Sir Nicholas BonsorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 15 December 1994,Official Report, column 809, for what military purpose the 12 light dumpers referred to are required; what factors led him to conclude that leasing was not appropriate in this instance; what information he has on availability on the civilian market of equivalent vehicles; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanThe 12 light dumpers are to be held available for short notice, air portable deployments. Given this requirement a short-term lease arrangement would not meet the time required to prepare commercial machines to meet the military specification, while a long-term leasing arrangement would not be cost effective in view of the need to ensure short notice priority for military requirements. A/S Hydrema is the only manufacturer, with the necessary quality assurance certification, who can supply light dumpers of the size required by MOD.