§ 5. Mr. Wiggasked the Secretary of State for War on what date he was asked to consider the design of the Ferguson car; what tests have been carried out by his Department; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HeadMr. Ferguson has been in touch with us since 1951 and has several times been invited to submit a prototype for testing. This is not yet forthcoming so no tests have been made.
§ Mr. WiggWill the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to tell the House how it is that his Department and not the Ministry of Supply is in touch with Mr. Ferguson? Will he tell us whether Mr. Ferguson is the only person who has made representations and, if so, can we then take to be untrue the reports which have appeared in the Press that His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh has considerably interested himself in this project?
§ Mr. HeadThe answer to the first part of the question is that representatives of my Department have seen the car, but, of course, any official question of testing is the responsibility of the Ministry of Supply. It is perfectly normal and customary for experts of my Department to see a vehicle of interest. The answer 5 to the second part of the supplementary question is that, for all I know, it is perfectly true that His Royal Highness has taken an interest in this car. I am merely stating the facts from the point of view of my Department.
§ Mr. WiggWill the right hon. Gentleman be good enough to reply to the question: has his Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh interested himself in this question sufficiently to make representations to his Department to test the car?
§ Mr. WiggIn view of the totally unsatisfactory and evasive reply of the Minister, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.