Written question asked by Paul Keetch (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 12 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 23 July 2002. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 July 2002 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make a statement on the criteria to be used in deciding which British procurement decisions to pursue through the European Technology Acquisition Programme. (Holding answer 17 July 2002).

Answer: Mr. Keetch: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the criteria to be used in deciding which British procurement decisions to pursue through the European technology acquisition programme. [70629] Dr. Moonie: [holding answer 17 July 2002]: The European technology acquisition programme (ETAP) is about collaborative technology development related to combat air systems rather than procurement of specific equipments. United Kingdom decisions on technology development within ETAP will reflect the key capabilities required of the UK's Future Offensive Air System. If one or more of our ETAP partners identify the same technology area as a priority, we will jointly decide whether a collaborative ETAP technology demonstration programme with European industry represents best value for money.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 70629; 389 c904W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Armed forces Defence equipment Procurement Technology European technology acquisition programme
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk