My question is to the Minister for Defence, Senator Johnston. I refer the minister to evidence given to the Senate by submarine expert and retired Commodore, Paul Greenfield, who said:

An Australian build should be no more expensive than an overseas build. The sail away cost of $20 billion for 12 submarines built in Australia is entirely feasible.

Given that the Senate has also heard evidence that it is possible to undertake the competitive tender process and avoid a capability gap, will the minister now commit to one?