asked the Secretary of State for Defence what proposals he has to offer any of the services for which he is responsible for disposal to private enterprise contractors.

The Ministry of Defence already procures a wide range of services from private industry under contract; and will continue to do so wherever it is efficient and economical. I have commissioned a number of studies which will consider, where appropriate, the existing balance between services provided by direct labour and commercially. Before any firm decisions are taken the Department's staff associations and trade unions will be consulted fully.