To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will re-evaluate the future rapid effect system project with particular reference to (a) the delivery schedule, (b) cost projections, (c) vehicle reliability, (d) the successful completion of all tests, (e) excessive weight, (f) excessive noise, (g) limited visibility and (h) reliability of the weapons system; and if he will make a statement.

Piranha V was announced as the provisional preferred design for the future rapid effect system (FRES) utility vehicle on 8 May 2008, Hansard, columns 39-40WS. This announcement followed completion of the MOD's assessment of the evidence gathered during the utility vehicle trials and the further work to fully understand the commercial implications of the three competing designs. It is because of our early recognition and understanding of many of the issues raised that we have decided to embark on a focused phase of risk reduction early in the FRES UV development to give the programme the very best chance of success.

The selection decision was made by following the guiding principles of a competitive assessment to select a design that best met the Army's requirement for a combination of value for money through life, timely delivery, high performance and growth potential. In common with all defence procurement programmes, we will re-evaluate the performance, time and cost parameters of the FRES programme right up to the point at which we take the main investment decision.