Christopher Pincher Welcomes MoD proposals to support SMEs

Tamworth’s Member of Parliament and member of the Armed Forces Bill Committee, Christopher Pincher, questioned the Defence Secretary, Dr Liam Fox, in Defence Questions this week.

Mr Pincher spoke in support of the Government’s proposals to have more business with small and medium sized businesses – as highlighted in the Green Paper – however, he sought clarification from the Secretary of State to ensure small and medium enterprises (SMEs) get their proper share of Government contracts:

“As my right hon. Friend concludes his consultation on the security and technology Green Paper, will he ensure that he does not make the previous Government’s mistake of allowing MOD prime contractors to obstruct small and medium-sized enterprises in getting their fair share of the defence procurement pie?”

Dr Liam Fox, the Secretary of State replied by saying:

“It has been an aim of the Government from the outset when looking at defence technology and the procurement process to ensure that SMEs are given more than a fair crack of the whip. For too long, this has been about the prime contractors, with too little consideration given to the SMEs, which represent in this country not only vibrancy in technology and innovation but a major source of employment.”

Christopher Pincher commented after the question session:

“I am glad that this Government – in stark contrast to the former Labour Government – recognises the importance of SMEs to the Defence sector.  They are also engines of economic growth, often providing specialised jobs throughout the country.  In our own town of Tamworth we have Aspire & Alcon to name just two companies.  The Government’s proposals will be good for these local small businesses and good for our economy.”