§ 38. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Supply what progress has been made in the production of the twin-engine 14 seater helicopter, the Bristol 173; and 1570 what encouragement his Department is giving to ensure that it is available for passenger services as soon as possible.
§ The Minister of Supply (Mr. Duncan Sandys)Two prototypes of the Bristol 173 helicopter ordered some time ago by the Ministry of Supply are now completed, and flight tests are proceeding. I have recently ordered three further prototypes incorporating various improvements. Production plans will depend on what orders are received by the firm.
§ Mr. NabarroCan my right hon. Friend arrange for an early trial flight over the ideal route for helicopters, the triangle Birmingham—Liverpool—Manchester?
§ 39. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Supply what encouragement his Department is giving to the production of a 45-seater or even larger helicopter; and what are the prospects in this connection.
§ Mr. SandysThe Ministry of Supply has placed contracts with a number of firms for design studies and development work; but it will be several years before helicopters of this size could be in production.
§ Mr. Doddsis the right hon. Gentleman aware that at the recent dinner of the Helicopter Association there was much comment about the lack of enthusiasm in Government Departments, whose minds are not working fast enough in connection with the development of helicopters? Can we be assured that they will have another look at the subject?
§ Mr. SandysI entirely share the enthusiasm of the hon. Gentleman for helicopters. I used to fly one myself years ago. All I can say is that there has been a certain lack of enthusiasm for helicopters in recent years and that I am trying to rectify it.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesIs it not a fact that the House has never yet been told the cost of a helicopter? How can we be enthusiastic about something of which we do not know the cost?