HC Deb 25 June 1956 vol 555 cc10-1
14. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Supply what specifications have been put to the aircraft industry for a long-range passenger jet aircraft; what response there has been from the industry; what now are the possibilities of producing a British aircraft of this type; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maudling

As the hon. Member was informed on 13th February, an outline specification for such an aircraft has been prepared by my Department, in conjunction with British Overseas Airways Corporation and has been sent to the manufacturers. A number of design studies have been submitted and they are being considered, but it is too early to make any statement.

Mr. Beswick

Is it not now clear that, every operator in the world except the British being now committed for this type of aircraft, we have lost the chance of selling these machines in the world market? Does it not now appear also that the Department made a mistake when it cancelled the order for the V1000?

Mr. Maudling

I do not accept for a moment that we have lost our position in the world market. These are difficult and complicated matters, but if we choose wisely we can and will still build an extremely successful long-range jet passenger aircraft.