§ 1. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Supply what progress has been made in the production of the Rotodyne jet-propelled helicopter; and what are the main features of this helicopter.
§ The Minister of Supply (Mr. Selwyn Lloyd)The main features of this machine are that the forward propulsion is to be provided by propellers, while the vertical lift is provided both by a single rotor powered by jet units at its tips and by a fixed wing. Since my predecessor answered a similar Question by the hon. Gentleman on 22nd March, the small research helicopter referred to then has been gaining flight experience and providing useful information. The first research prototype of the Rotodyne is under construction. A second research prototype has been ordered, the fuselage of which will be of a size approximating to the requirements of civil operators for a cargo helicopter.
§ Mr. DoddsAs there are many people at home and abroad awaiting the development of helicopters, can the right hon. and learned Gentleman say whether he 574 has really big hopes for this British type of helicopter? Does it look as if it will fill the bill?