A group opposed to the state's multi-billion rand arms deal said yesterday it would seek a default judgment against government in the Cape Town High Court if it did not file opposing affidavits to its application for scrapping the deal by March 5.

Economists Allied for Arms Reduction claimed that Finance Minister Trevor Manuel had sought a further extension of three weeks to file opposing affidavits.

The group said that if Manuel failed to file his opposing affidavits at the set date, it would lead to an application in the high court. Manuel's office could not be reached for comment.