HC Deb 16 April 1947 vol 436 cc158-9
5. Air-Commodore Harvey

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation if he will make a statement giving a complete list of U.S. aircraft on order for British air Corporations or about to he ordered.

Mr. Lindgren

There are six Boeing Stratocruisers on order for the British Overseas Airways Corporation, and three Sikorsky S.51 helicopters for the British European Airways Corporation. An order for two Bell type 47B helicopters also for the British European Airways Corporation is about to be placed. No further United States aircraft orders have been authorised on behalf of British air Corporations.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Does that mean that the Ministry does not intend to order Constellations fitted with British engines?

Mr. Lindgren

I could not give that undertaking. As a result of exploratory exchanges between the Bristol Aeroplane Company and the Lockheed Corporation, a proposal has been received for the development of a new version of the Constellation aircraft powered with Bristol Centaurus engines. The merits of the project, and the commitments which would be involved, are under examination by the Corporations concerned, in consultation with my Department and the Ministry of Supply. It would be premature to make any statement at the pre-sent time. I need hardly repeat, however, that it is the policy of my noble Friend that British aircraft should be employed on British airlines to the maximum extent practicable.

Mr. Beswick

Could the Minister tell us the cost of the aircraft?

Mr. Lindgren

Which aircraft?

Mr. Beswick

The American aircraft.

Mr. Lindgren

Yes, Sir. The information has already been given to the House. For the Stratocruisers it is about 12 million dollars, for the Sikorsky helicopters it is £15,000 each, and for the Bell, £7,000 each.

Mr. Beswick

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why it is possible to publish particulars of American aircraft and not of British aircraft?

Mr. Lindgren

I cannot answer that question beyond saying that we do know the cost of this because it is a direct purchase.