HC Deb 12 March 1952 vol 497 cc1358-9
6. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Civil Aviation by what dates he expects the Comet II, the Viscount and the MRE 175 aircraft to be ready for operational service.

Mr. Maclay

I am informed that provisional plans are based on bringing the Comet Series II aircraft into service towards the end of 1953, the Viscount aircraft at the end of this year, and the Bristol 175 aircraft about the end of 1954.

Mr. Beswick

Will the Minister give this his personal attention to ensure that these machines get the priority they deserve and are not pushed down the scale through the re-armament effort in other directions?

Mr. Maclay

Obviously I am as keen as anybody can be that these planes should come into operation at the earliest possible opportunity.