§ 3. Mr. Stracheyasked the Secretary of State for War if he is satisfied that the Thunderbird is the best available surface-to-air missile for the Army; and if he will state the policy of Her Majesty's Government regarding its future use.
§ Mr. SoamesYes, Sir. The weapon is in production for the Army and a more advanced version is being developed.
§ Mr. StracheyIs the right hon. Gentleman quite satisfied that the development of the diversity of types which I have in mind, Bloodhound in particular, is advisable? I realise the difference between the types of weapon, but it seems doubtful whether we are within our capacity in trying to develop these other weapons, especially now that Bloodhound has been ordered so widely abroad?
§ Mr. SoamesI think that this is a matter which lends itself more to debate than to Question and Answer. Broadly speaking, I know the sort of thing which the right hon. Gentleman has in mind. We have considered the matter and we are of the opinion that for Army use the Thunderbird is, if I may adapt a phrase used by my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House, the best missile we have.