Senator Chris Evans: The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: (1) Yes. (2) The cost estimate provided to Defence by the supplier of "Scorpène" is commercial-in-confidence and cannot be made available publically. (3) Advantages: Proven design and possibly a relatively shorter delivery time compared with some other potential options. Disadvantages: The design does not meet Australia's broad needs as outlined in the Defence White Paper.