That this House believes that, as confirmed by Options for Change and, notwithstanding the conflict in the Gulf, future prospects for defence production and procurement will continue to decline; further believes that this will lead to a reduction in levels of employment in the defence industry and the potential loss of high levels of skill and competence; recognises the importance of retaining the skills and experience of the defence industry in the interests of the revitalisation and advancement of British manufacturing; and urges Her Majesty's Government to initiate immediate discussions with all parties involved in the defence industry with a view to ensuring, either by diversification or the development of new engineering opportunities, that the valuable skills of the industry and the employment prospects of its workers are protected.

That this House believes that, as confirmed by Options for Change and, notwithstanding the conflict in the Gulf, future prospects for defence production and procurement will continue to decline; further believes that this will lead to a reduction in levels of employment in the defence industry and the potential loss...