Written question asked by Lord Clark of Windermere (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 17 December 1996. It was answered by Lord Arbuthnot of Edrom (Conservative) on Tuesday, 17 December 1996 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: If he will comment concerning his Department's competition policy in relation to the Bowman radio communications contract.

Answer: Dr. David Clark: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement concerning his Department's competition policy in relation to the Bowman radio communications contract. [9659] Mr. Arbuthnot: The Bowman programme has been pursued in accordance with Ministry of Defence procurement policy, whereby the Department seeks competition wherever possible. The programme is in the project definition phase, which is being undertaken by two competing consortia, Yeoman led by Siemens Plessey Systems and Racal, and Crossbow, led by ITT UK Ltd. The MOD is currently examining the procurement options open to the Department for production, including the scope for competition at sub-contractor level. Whichever procurement route is chosen for Bowman, MOD will aim to secure the maximum practicable level of competition.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 9659; 287 c521-2W
Session: 1996-97
Subjects: Defence Competition Engineering Procurement Radio BOWMAN combat radio system