HC Deb 21 March 1956 vol 550 cc1215-7
2. Air Commodore Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for Air what consideration is given to commercial rights for home and export sales of radio, radar and electric equipment when the Royal Air Force sells such equipment in new condition to other countries; and what steps are taken to avoid competing with the manufacturers of such equipment.

Mr. Birch

With one or two exceptions where special considerations apply, new equipment which is available from commercial sources is not sold by the Royal Air Force to other countries except at the direct request of Governments with whom we have formal supply agreements. Proprietary equipment is supplied only with the manufacturers' consent.

Air Commodore Harvey

In the case of such deals as do take place, is my right hon. Friend satisfied that he gets the best price that could have been obtained by the commercial companies?

Mr. Birch

That is again a very relevant point. I am advised that sometimes the price is higher and sometimes less.

3. Air Commodore Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for Air what steps are taken by the Royal Air Force to ensure that radio, radar and electronic equipment sold in new condition to other countries functions to the satisfaction of the purchasing Government; and what facilities are provided in the way of after-sales service of this equipment to protect the reputation of this country's products in the export field.

Mr. Birch

All equipment is inspected by the Aeronautical Inspection Service before dispatch, the purchasing Government being represented if they so wish. The Royal Air Force has no responsibility for maintaining the equipment after it has been sold. Technical advice is supplied if required.

Air Commodore Harvey

Does my right hon. Friend think it is a good thing for British equipment to be sold to foreign Powers when there is no real after-sales service given? Could he do something to ensure, perhaps through the companies themselves, that after-sales service is given? Otherwise it ruins the name of British equipment.

Mr. Birch

I understand that very few complaints have been received on this score. I quite agree that that is a good point, and I understand that in many cases the manufacturers do give after-sales service.