§ 41. Mr. Wedgwood Bennasked the Minister of Supply whether the recent criticisms of British jet engine development made by Sir Frank Whittle were made with his consent; and what steps he is taking to improve development.
§ Mr. SandysSir Frank Whittle no longer has any official connection with the Ministry of Supply. The first part of the Question does not, therefore, arise. With regard to the second part, I do not consider that his criticisms call for any changes in our development policy.
§ Mr. BennIs the Minister aware that Sir Frank Whittle has been offered a very highly paid post in the United States and is considering accepting it? Would he consider discussing the matter with Sir Frank both in order to go over the development programme and also in an attempt to retain the services of this distinguished scientist in this country?
§ Mr. SandysI am well aware of the contribution which Sir Frank Whittle has made to British aircraft development. 'I he Ministry of Supply know his views on jet engine development. He is a strong advocate of the advantages of the centrifugal as opposed to the axial compressor system, but I do not think that we can discuss this technical matter at Question time.