AZ vs. CA:10 California Exhibits, Vol. X; Nos. 458-528

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-8- 11. Except as otherwise provided in this contract, any dispute concerning a question of fact arising under this contract which is not disposed of by agreement shall be decided by the Contracting Officer, who shall reduce his decision to writing and mail or otherwise furnish a copy thereof to each Contractor concerned. Within 30 days from the date of receipt of such copy, each Contractor concerned may appeal by mailing or otherwise furnishing to the Contracting Officer a written appeal addressed to the Secretary, and the decision of the Secretary, or his duly authorized representative for the hearing of such appeals, shall be final and conclusive; provided that, if no such appeal is taken, the decision of the Contracting Officer shall be final and conclusive. In connection with any appeal proceeding under this clause, each Contractor concerned shall be afforded an opportunity to be heard and to offer evidence in support of its appeal. Pending final decision of a dispute hereunder, each Contractor shall proceed diligently with the performance of the contract and in accordance with the Contracting Officer's decision. 12. As used throughout this contract, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below; (a) The term "Secretary" means the Secretary, the Under Secretary, or any Assistant Secretary of the Navy Department; and the term "his duly authorized representative" means any person or persons or board (other than the Contracting Officer) authorized to act for the Secretary. (b) The term "Contracting Officer" means the person executing this contract on behalf of the Government, and any other officer or civilian employee who is a properly designated Contracting Officer; and the term includes, except as otherwise provided in this contract, the authorized