HC Deb 16 May 2003 vol 405 cc442-3W
Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the(a) provision and (b) outturn for the defence budget was, in cash terms, broken down by (i) Vote and (ii) Request for Resources in each year since 1997–98. [109141]

Mr. Ingram

The figures for each year from 1997–98 to 2000–01 are set out in the table below. From 2001–02 onwards the Defence budget was set on a Resource basis, which includes accruals, rather than cash. The figures for 2001–02 have not been included therefore, as they are not directly comparable to those for earlier years.

The strategic defence review placed several targets on the newly formed Defence Logistics Organisation. The targets shown as follows, for which there were identified financial savings, have been achieved. 20 per cent. (GBV 98 Baseline) stock reduction by 2001–02, Reduction in spares provision of £115 million per annum by 2001–02

Other on-going targets have been subsumed within the DLO's overall efficiency target.

Mr. Jenkin

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how long the Defence Logistics Organisation needs to deploy fully equipment to forces once they are in-theatre. [112025]

Mr. Ingram

The onward movement of equipment within a theatre of operations is the responsibility of the local military commander. Equipment and supplies are delivered to units in accordance with the military priority at the time and the overall delivery time will depend on a number of factors. These include the distance between the port or holding area and the receiving unit, the condition of local infrastructure, and whether the environment is hostile or benign. Delivery times will, therefore, vary from case to case.