26. Air Commodore Harveyasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Defence how many helicopters have been made for use by the defence Services.
§ Mr. BirchOnly a small number of helicopters has yet been delivered to the Services. More are on order and they are now beginning to come off the production lines at a better rate. Steps are being taken to improve deliveries.
Air Commodore HarveyDoes my hon. Friend realise that his reply does not give very much satisfaction, and will he try to persuade the admirals of the Royal Navy that helicopters have a positive use in anti-submarine warfare?
§ Mr. BirchI am aware that the present position is very unsatisfactory. I am also aware that the admirals are very keen indeed on helicopters, and we hope to be able to supply them.
§ Colonel Alan Gomme-DuncanCan my hon. Friend say whether the new helicopters which are coming off the production line are single-engined or twin-engined?