Written question asked by Robert Key (Conservative) on Tuesday, 8 February 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 February 2000. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Monday, 14 February 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how much money, and over what time scale, he intends to save by purchasing a new track for Challenger II; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Key: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how much money, and over what time scale, he intends to save by purchasing a new track for Challenger 2; and if he will make a statement. [109734] Dr. Moonie: The whole-life costs of all weapons systems are being examined as part of the Department's Smart Procurement initiative. Challenger 2, which only entered service in June 1998, is no exception. It is too early to say with absolute accuracy what savings will be achieved from on-going studies into the running costs of the vehicle.

Secondary information