HC Deb 09 November 1959 vol 613 cc23-4
34. Sir T. Moore

asked the Minister of Aviation if he is satisfied that the design and specification of the Scottish Pegasus aircraft are suitable for Army Air Corps requirements; and what action he is taking in the matter.

36. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Aviation what considerations guided him in preferring the Beaver aircraft to the Pegasus for light aircraft work with the Royal Air Force.

The Minister of Aviation (Mr. Duncan Sandys)

From the preliminary design available, it would seem that the Pegasus could be developed into a suitable aircraft to meet the Army's requirements. There are, of course, other important factors to be taken into account, such as delivery dates and cost. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister will be receiving a deputation representing the manufacturers and other Scottish interests concerned later this week. Until their views have been considered no decision will be taken.

Sir T. Moore

While I thank my right hon. Friend for giving that encouragement, will he remember that, as I have previously pointed out to him in correspondence, this order, if received, might mean the difference between life or death to our only design and manufacturing aircraft industry in Scotland, and would it not be better to help it than to establish new factories to take over the redundant staff?

Mr. Sandys

I realise, of course, the importance of the factory to that part of Scotland.

Mr. Rankin

Will the right hon. Gentleman realise that, assuming the characteristics of both aircraft to be much the same, if the Pegasus is lost to Prestwick, then the manufacture of airframes and aircraft will disappear almost completely from Scotland and, as an indirect result, repair and maintenance of aircraft will disappear also from Renfrew and 900 employees will be rendered jobless? Will he represent those facts to the Prime Minister before he reaches a decision?

Mr. Sandys

I have no doubt that precisely those points will be brought before the Prime Minister when the deputation meets him later this week. I can assure hon. Members who are concerned with the area that the importance of the industry to the area is well understood.