HC Deb 27 January 2003 vol 398 cc633-4W
Mr. Jack

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on his Department's relationship with BAE Systems; and what assessment he has made of(a) the strengths and (b) the weaknesses of BAE Systems in delivering his Department's procurement requirements. [93205]

Mr. Hoon

The Ministry of Defence has an excellent relationship with BAE Systems. The company is a key supplier to the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence. It has delivered substantial military capability over the years and I expect that it will continue to do so in the future.

Mr. Jack

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the strategic significance to the UK of BAE Systems. [93206]

Mr. Hoon

BAE Systems is the largest supplier to the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence and is involved in many of our largest and most complex programmes. It is a very successful British and international company, with an excellent track record of winning overseas business. Our defence industrial policy, published in October 2002, made clear the importance the Government places on the whole of the UK defence industry.

Mr. Jack

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether his Department has been advised in 2003 of interest by a non-UK company in merging with or taking over BAE Systems. [93207]

Mr. Hoon

The Ministry of Defence has not been advised of any interest by any company in merging with or taking over BAE Systems.