HC Deb 17 July 1961 vol 644 c878
35. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Aviation if he has yet received from the French Government a reply on the possibilities of their collaborating with this country in the production of a supersonic airliner.

Mr. Rippon

Within the last few days my right hon. Friend has received a reply from the French Minister of Transport suggesting a discussion between them on this subject, as soon as it can conveniently be arranged.

Mr. Rankin

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether or not any sort of study is going on with the French Government on how we are to achieve supersonic speed without the power which, according to Lord Brabazon, at a height of 20,000 feet may shatter the windows of houses below the machine?

Mr. Rippon

French firms as well as British firms have been engaged on these studies, which include the sort of matter to which Lord Brabazon referred.