§ 26. Mr. Wallasked the Secretary of State for Air what steps he proposes to take to replace the existing Beverley by more modern long-range transport aircraft.
Mr. WardAs I explained in my speech on the Air Estimates last week, we are in consultation with the War Office about the eventual successor to the Beverley.
§ Mr. WallDoes my hon. Friend recall that in a speech a very little while ago he said that this aeroplane would last until about mid-1960? Is it not time that we got down to a prototype replacement as soon as possible? Is he aware that the makers of the Beverley have a new aircraft on the stocks and are only awaiting the starting pistol?
Mr. WardMy hon. Friend will no doubt agree that in ordering aircraft of this kind we must be absolutely certain that we have made a proper study, in consultation with its main user, which is the War Office, of the future requirements. I would ask him to bear in mind that the Beverley has only just entered service and will be adequate for a good number of years to come.