§ 38. Mr. Goodhewasked the Secretary of State for Defence what has been the estimated annual saving on the Defence Vote to the change from sea to air trooping.
§ Mr. ThorneycroftCurrently the saving is estimated as something over £10 million a year.
§ Mr. GoodhewIs my right hon. Friend aware that his reply will give great satisfaction to hon. Members on both sides of the House? In view of the very heavy demands made on R.A.F. Transport Command in recent months, will he convey to all ranks the congratulations of this House on the efficiency with which these duties have been carried out, and also on the outstanding safety record of Transport Command which excels even that of commercial airlines?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftYes, Sir.
§ Mr. MulleyWhile wishing to join in the congratulations offered to Transport Command, may I ask if there would not be a possibility for further savings if Transport Command were more fully utilised in trooping as distinct from independent air trooping contracts, and would it not also be advantageous if the Air Corporations were able to tender for this trooping work?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftI think that there was an increase in trooping by Transport Command this year, and I think the figure is a satisfactory one. It is a matter for debate as to what further advance can be made, but the whole House will agree with my hon. Friend the Member for St. Albans (Mr. Goodhew) that it has satisfactorily carried out its work.
§ Sir J. EdenCan my right hon. Friend say when the carrying capacity of Transport Command will be further increased by the delivery of VC.10s?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftIn 1966.
§ Mr. LubbockIs the Secretary of State satisfied, in the light of recent experience and commitments arising simultaneously in different parts of the world, that orders for aircraft placed on behalf of Transport Command are adequate?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftYes, Sir, and I think that the smooth efficiency with which recent operations have been carried out has demonstrated that our plans were well laid.