HC Deb 04 July 1951 vol 489 c2298
18. Sir I. Fraser

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he has now received particulars of the Russian jet aircraft encountered by our forces in Korea; and if he will publish these particulars.

Mr. Crawley

Further information about these aircraft has now been received, and the question of whether it could be published has been carefully considered. My right hon. and learned Friend has, however, come to the conclusion that it would not be in the public interest to do so.

Sir I. Fraser

How will it be possible for British manufacturers to compete with these advances which have been made by other powers if they are not given the technical details?

Mr. Crawley

I think it is possible to give responsible people in our manufacturing industry enough data to go on without publishing it world-wide.

Sir I. Fraser

Can the hon. Gentleman give an assurance that he will do that?