§ 84. Mr. Perkinsasked the Secretary of State for Air how many Tiger IX engines have been supplied to the Royal Air Force during the last two years; whether they have proved satisfactory; whether any have been replaced; and the price paid for each engine?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Captain Harold Balfour)Seven Tiger IX engines have been supplied to the Royal Air Force during the two years ended 28th February, 1939, as part of a total purchase of 80 of this type. The engine was subject to a reduced period of development, due to its being one of the first of the new types acquired for the early part of the expansion programme. It did not prove entirely satisfactory before modification. No replacements have been acquired, and it is now being superseded by later types which are giving satisfactory service. In regard to the last part of the question, it is contrary to public policy to disclose prices paid.