C Hinecap,
I believe Rear Admiral Holley was Director General Aircraft (Navy) in the mid-to-late 80s. That is, customer, not supplier.
The use of the word "defect" is significant. In law, it has a definite meaning related to Product Liability. If there were truly defects (in any product) then by definition an investigation has taken place and the design contractor has acknowledged liability.
All such records would be available to the BOI, who could order further investigations. Is the "not correctly analysed or followed up" comment a criticism of (a) staff who knew how to analyse and follow up but did not, (b) a system which no longer requires such competencies at the relevant rank/grade, or (c) possible lack of funding to conduct fault investigations in the first place?
I look forward to reading the Air Cmde's report!