HC Deb 21 February 1955 vol 537 cc873-4
Mr. J. Johnson

asked the Minister of Supply why the production schedule for Sapphire jet engines has fallen behind; and what steps he is taking to bring production up to the original programme.

Mr. Edelman

asked the Minister of Supply what measures he is taking in order to bring the production of Sapphire jet engines up to schedule.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

The production of Sapphire jet engines fell somewhat behind programme because on testing the engine it was found desirable to replace certain rigid piping with flexible piping. Arrangements have been made to increase the rate of production of the flexible piping. The target for engine production is set some time in advance of the requirements of aircraft manufacturers for engines, to allow for temporary delays in production for reasons such as this. There has not been delay in meeting the requirements of the aircraft manufacturers.

Mr. Johnson

Whilst thanking the Minister for that answer, may I ask him if he is aware that there is much disquiet amongst the Coventry workers engaged on this job, and can he give an assurance to the House that he will personally look into this matter and guarantee that it will catch up with the schedule?

Mr. Lloyd

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his supplementary question. This is an improvement which has been arrived at in the course of development, and I will see that it does not hold up production.

Mr. Wigg

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that if there are more Avons produced that Sapphires, it means that the Hawker Hunter is being equipped with the engine which causes trouble when its guns are fired?

Mr. Lloyd

I do not think that that question arises out of this one.