§ 39. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Defence what consideration has now been given, and decisions reached, in respect of ordering Fairey Rotodyne helicopter aeroplanes for use by the Army or any other Service Department.
§ Mr. SandysThere is no doubt that the Rotodyne design incorporates important new features, which are of interest for civil and military use. I am at present considering whether, and if so, how, it would fit into our pattern of defence requirements. This study raises a number of quite complex issues, but there will be no avoidable delay in reaching a decision.
§ Mr. DoddsIn view of the fact that experts believe that this type of aircraft could be a great success, provided the Army were prepared to place an order for it, as is done in America when aircraft go on the civil list afterwards, will the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that although the Army is limited to aircraft up to 2 tons in weight, the Ministry will not be responsible for prohibiting the supply of this aircraft to the Army because it weighs over 2 tons? Further, can the right hon. Gentleman say when he expects a decision to be made in the matter, as such a decision is long overdue now?
§ Mr. SandysThe question which Service is to operate an aircraft if it were required for military use will not affect the decision whether or not we do adopt this type.
§ Mr. de FreitasIf it is decided to adopt it, is it not most important that the most efficient user principle should be adopted? We cannot afford what the United States is able to afford in having three separate Services operating military aircraft.
§ Mr. SandysI thought I made it clear that that would not be one of the issues which would decide whether or not we should adopt this type of aircraft.