§ 11. Mr. Callaghanasked the Minister of Supply what effect the super-priority given the Gannet is having on production; and when the Royal Navy can expect a reasonable flow of these aircraft.
§ Mr. SandysSuper-priority has proved most helpful, particularly in regard to material supplies. It would not be in the public interest to publish forecasts of deliveries.
§ Mr. CallaghanIs the Minister not aware that there is widespread criticism that the super-priority is creating more confusion than aeroplanes? Is he proposing to make any amendment to the present arrangements?
§ Mr. SandysI think that that criticism comes very badly from the hon. Gentleman in regard to this aircraft. As he knows very well, the reason for this 'plane taking so long to get into production is that under his administration at the Admiralty it was entirely redesigned, with the result that the late Government only placed the production order for it last year.
§ Mr. CallaghanI am not discussing that question at the moment, though I shall be glad to do so; what I am asking the right hon. Gentleman is whether the super-priority is giving any help to it since the allegation is that it is not?
§ Mr. SandysI have already given the answer. I have said that it has proved most helpful.
§ Mr. CallaghanThat does not help very much.
§ Mr. SandysThe hon. Gentleman refused to give similar information last year.