§ Mr. GrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what assurances General Dynamics has given regarding the continuance of(a) Alvis plc's UK-based and (b) Alvis Hagglund's development and production programmes and capabilities; [177780]
(2) what light and medium armour capabilities are produced by General Dynamics Corporation and its subsidiaries; what discussions have been held with General Dynamics concerning Alvis plc's Future Rapid Effects System activities; and if he will make a statement on the defence implications of the Office of Fair Trading's investigation into the proposed takeover of Alvis plc by General Dynamics Corporation. [177892]
§ Mr. IngramGeneral Dynamics Corporation (GDC) and its subsidiaries produce a full suite of light and medium armour capabilities. Since the GDC offer to acquire Alvis plc was announced there have been several high-level discussions between the Ministry of Defence and GDC. These discussions covered both Alvis plc and the Future Rapid Effects System programme. On 3 June 2004 the Alvis plc Board recommended to its shareholders their acceptance of an offer from BAE Systems to acquire the company. GDC subsequently announced on 4 June 2004 that it would not revise its offer. The GDC offer for Alvis plc formally lapsed on 7 June 2004.