Written question asked by Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 22 October 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 November 1999. It was answered by Geoffrey Hoon (Labour) on Tuesday, 2 November 1999 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his Answer of 27th July, Official Report, columns 199-200, when the contract was signed with the United States Department of Defense for the replenishment on RN Tomahawk missiles; what are the delivery terms of the contract; how many replacement missiles will be purchased; at what cost to his Department; and if he will make a statement. - Includes fact that some information withheld in accordance with Exemption 1 (Defence Security and International Relations) of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

Answer: Mr. Menzies Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to his answer of 27 July 1999, Official Report, columns 199-200, when the contract was signed with the United States Department of Defense for the replenishment on RN Tomahawk missiles; what are the delivery terms of the contract; how many replacement missiles will be purchased; at what cost to his Department; and if he will make a statement. [95974] Mr. Hoon: A contract for 20 Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles was signed on 1 August 1999. The cost will be met from the Reserve. Knowledge of the delivery schedule would assist a potential adversary to assess our stock level and operational capability. I am therefore withholding this information in accordance with Exemption 1 (Defence, Security and International Relations) of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information.

Secondary information