Probably misleading to finger DE&S. The alleged issues frequently arise from decisions outwith their control. Non-compliancies in bids don't halt the process in the manner described. Last time I was told to freeze a tender and give all bidders bad news, it was due to political lobbying to award the contract to a non-bidder, in a Defence Minister's constituency. Six months later, we were told to contract that company, and to freeze for a further six months to allow them to read the specs and work out what to do.