§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to discuss European procurement collaboration with his French and German colleagues; and if he will make a statement. [1340]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotDiscussions continue with my French and German colleagues in a variety of forums, both on specific projects and on general European equipment collaboration issues. In particular, my Department is currently involved in discussions on the possible establishment of a European armaments agency and on the prospects for participation by the UK in the planned Franco-German armaments co-operation structure.