HC Deb 09 February 1998 vol 306 cc66-7W
15. Mr. Ben Chapman

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on progress made towards European defence industry restructuring in response to the peace dividend. [26109]

Mr. Spellar

Since the end of the Cold War, the defence industries of the USA and Western Europe have seen major changes in structure and organisation. These changes have proceeded further and faster in the USA, and a similar process needs to take place urgently within Europe. This was reflected in the 9 December trilateral statement on restructuring which calls on industry to submit clear plans and a detailed timetable for restructuring and integration by 31 March 1998. In preparation for this, discussions are continuing between European companies, and between industry and Government officials.

31. Dr. Cable

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what responses he has had from industry regarding the joint British, French and German call for restructuring of military aerospace manufacturing capacity; and if he will make a statement. [26128]

Mr. Spellar

The trilateral statement of 9 December 1997 called on companies to present a clear plan and detailed timetable for the restructuring and integration of the European aerospace and related defence industries by 31 March 1998. In preparation for this, discussions are continuing between European companies, and between industry and Government officials.