HC Deb 20 April 1959 vol 604 c23
35. Mr. de Freitas

asked the Minister of Supply what long-range sea reconnaissance aircraft are on order for the Royal Air Force.

Mr. Aubrey Jones

The Shackleton 3 is the maritime reconnaissance aircraft currently on order for the Royal Air Force. Deliveries are almost complete. Earlier marks are being progressively modernised to an equivalent standard.

Mr. de Freitas

Is not this admission that there is no aircraft on order other than the Shackleton a very serious one? Can the Minister say, at least, that existing types of aircraft, such as the Britannia could be modified to meet Coastal Command requirements when the Shackletons themselves are given up?

Mr. Jones

I should like notice of the second part of the hon. Gentleman's Question.

As to the first part, I can only say that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Air is responsible for Air Ministry requirements and that I am not.