HC Deb 16 June 1997 vol 296 c77W
15. Mr. Skinner

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to announce the result of his defence policy review; and if he will make a statement. [2055]

Mr. George Robertson

I expect the Strategic Defence Review to be completed around the turn of the year. I will make a statement to the House as soon as practicable thereafter.

19. Mr. Waterson

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has had from the defence-related industries about his proposed defence review. [2059]

Mr. Robertson

I have received a number of letters from Defence Trade Associations, companies and individuals offering inputs into the Strategic Defence Review.

23. Mr. Martin Bell

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the Government's strategic defence review and its impact on the welfare of service families. [2064]

Dr. Reid

The Strategic Defence Review will decide how our Armed Forces should be structured, equipped and deployed to meet our nation's interests and commitments. Decisions will take full account of the implications for the welfare of Service personnel and their families.

27. Mr. Viggers

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment he has made of the likely impact of his strategic review on defence procurement. [2068]

Mr. Robertson

The Strategic Defence Review will ensure the Armed Forces are properly equipped to undertake the tasks we ask of them. The Government are also committed to a strong British defence industry as a strategic part of our industrial base as well as our defence effort. There will be no moratorium and business will proceed as normally as possible. Decisions on major equipment programmes not yet under contract will be considered on their individual circumstances and in relation to progress with the Review. Projects already under contract will continue.

Mr. Boswell

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if his forthcoming Defence Review will be based on the assumption of unchanged expenditure plans. [2061]

Mr. Robertson

The Strategic Defence Review will be foreign policy led rather than driven by resources. The Government are committed to the spending plans already laid down for the next two years.