Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps her Department is taking to encourage competition in defence procurement.

Competition remains the cornerstone of defence procurement policy, except where other strategic considerations need to be taken into account, for example national security, operational advantage and freedom of action.

The Ministry of Defence routinely engages with prime contractors to maximise competition in the supply chain wherever possible; for example, encouraging early visibility of forthcoming requirements.

Above all, our focus is on securing the best capability for the Armed Forces at the best value for money for the taxpayer.