HC Deb 23 July 1956 vol 557 cc17-8
23. Mr. Hunter

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is satisfied with the methods of co-operation that exist between his Department and the aircraft manufacturers in this country in providing aircraft for the British Overseas Airways Corporation; and if he will make a statement.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply (Mr. F. J. Erroll)

My right hon. Friend is satisfied that there is good co-operation in these matters, but he always welcomes suggestions for improvements.

Mr. Hunter

Is the Minister aware that there is great disappointment in the aircraft industry at the fact that B.O.A.C. is being forced to buy American yet airliners, whereas if there had been greater co-operation between the Ministry of Supply and aircraft manufacturers the airliners could have been made in this country?

Mr. Enroll

B.O.A.C. is already buying a number of British aircraft, both Britannias and Comets, and it is too early to anticipate the result of the recent visit to America by executives of B.O.A.C.

Air Commodore Harvey

Will my hon. Friend say when B.O.A.C. last placed an order for a large type of aircraft to meet its requirements? Is it not a fact that the V.1000 did not have the blessing of B.O.A.C. and that aircraft cannot be produced unless they are ordered?

Mr. Erroll

I agree with my hon. and gallant Friend that requirements must be stated in good time if they are to be fulfilled by the British aircraft industry.