Written question asked by Lord Cunningham of Felling (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 February 1997. It was answered by Lord Arbuthnot of Edrom (Conservative) on Tuesday, 18 February 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence;Defence Evaluation and Research Agency

Question: What proportion of the test and evaluation work of (a) Eskmeals range and (b) Shoeburyness range is devoted to (i) new weapon procurement and (ii) equipment improvement programmes to enhance existing defence systems. - Text of letter from John Chisholm of Defence Evaluation and Research Agency.

Answer: Dr. Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what proportion of the test and evaluation work of (a) Eskmeals range and (b) Shoeburyness range is devoted to (i) new weapon procurement and (ii) equipment improvement programmes to enhance existing defence systems. [16481] Mr. Arbuthnot: This is a matter for the chief executive of the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency. I have asked the chief executive to write to the right hon. Member. Letter from John Chisholm to Dr. John Cunningham, dated 18 February 1997: I have been asked to reply to your question about the nature of the work done in support of the Ministry of Defence's equipment procurement programme at the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) ranges at Eskmeals and Shoeburyness, since as Chief Executive of DERA, this is a matter for which I am responsible. Work on the Eskmeals range is divided in broadly equal parts between new equipment procurement and equipment improvement programmes. At Shoeburyness, typically half of the tasks undertaken involves the proof testing of weapons and munitions. The remainder of the work is in support of new equipment procurement or improvement programmes, but on both ranges the precise balance varies from year to year. I hope this is helpful.

Secondary information