HC Deb 28 March 1960 vol 620 cc940-1
29. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Aviation what orders for military and civil aircraft he has placed with the two main groups of aircraft manufacturers; and what conditions have been made in respect of any development contracts made.

31. Mr. Grimond

asked the Minister of Aviation if he will make a further statement on the obligations which Her Majesty's Government are accepting or proposing to accept in regard to the merger of aircraft construction firms, and the amount of public money involved.

Mr. Sandys

I have had several meetings with these groups. I have told them what projects or types of project would, in my opinion, justify Government support and the terms on which I would be prepared to make it available. The firms concerned are now studying the matter and I hope to receive their proposals shortly. I will make a further statement in due course.

Mr. Chetwynd

Has the Minister given further consideration to issuing a White Paper setting out these proposals and the terms on which the Government will accept them? Can he say when this large carrot of Government aid, which has been dangling before the industry for so long, will become a reality?

Mr. Sandys

Well, the industry is sniffing the carrot at the moment and I am waiting to get its reactions. As for a White Paper, perhaps the hon. Member will await a further statement which I shall make and then see whether he thinks that there is sufficient additional information to justify a White Paper. I rather doubt whether there will be.

Mr. Grimond

I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for saying that he will consider issuing a White Paper, but is he aware that the Leader of the House has promised in the case of the steel industry that before final agreements are reached on any question of further aid an opportunity will be allowed to the House to discuss them? Will the right hon. Gentleman consult the Leader of the House on whether similar arrangements could be made in connection with the aircraft industry?

Mr. Sandys

I am always in close touch with my right hon. Friend.