HC Deb 29 March 1995 vol 257 c694W
Sir Nicholas Bonsor

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what military purpose his Department requires to purchase 30 wheeled industrial diesel tractors, as set out in tender No. LV2B/488; what consideration has been given to leasing or hiring of such tractors; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Freeman

[holding answer 22 March 1995]: The wheeled industrial diesel tractors are required for the general haulage of stores, materials handling activities and occasional light aircraft towing. A number of these are also protected to allow safe movement of ammunition, bombs and missiles. The provision, management and support of service transport is at present being reviewed to determine whether there is scope for greater involvement of the private sector. We intend to establish pilot leasing schemes by the end of this calendar year. Tender LV2B/488 represents the minimum order necessary to meet the requirement pending the outcome of the review. Any resultant contract will be sufficiently flexible to take account of changes in vehicle purchasing arrangements for any further requirements.

Sir Nicholas Bonsor

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what military purpose his Department requires to purchase various diesel 4 x 2 trucks, as set out in future purchase LV1B/983; what consideration has been given to leasing or hiring of such trucks; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Freeman

[holding answer 22 March 1995]: The vehicles are required for the transportation of military stores and equipment. The provision, management and support of service transport is at present being reviewed to determine whether there is scope for greater involvement of the private sector. We intend to establish pilot leasing schemes by the end of this calendar year. Future purchase LV1B/983 represents the minimum order necessary to meet the requirement pending the outcome of the review.