§ 8. Mr. Mellishasked the Minister of Supply to what extent it is his intention to reduce the expenditure on research and development on manned aircraft and guided missiles; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Aubrey JonesI cannot anticipate the Defence White Paper and the Defence Estimates for next year.
§ Mr. MellishThere is a great deal of uncertainty about all this. No one seems to know, not even the Government themselves, what the policy is, if there is to be a reduction in this field, are we not entitled to some advance information?
§ Mr. JonesI have observed a great deal of speculation on this matter, much of it I think quite wild and off the mark. Surely the hon. Gentleman will not expect me to anticipate decisions which are normally given in the Defence White Paper.