§ 41. Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Air what progress is being made in the development of the TSR2 aircraft; to what extent his Department has modified its policy regarding its continuation: and when is the estimated entry of this aircraft into the Royal Air Force.
§ The Secretary of State for Air (Mr. Julian Amery)The development of the TSR2 is making good progress. The policy for its introduction has in no way been modified. We expect that it will be ready in the mid-1960s.
§ Mr. MasonDoes the Secretary of State for Air really think this project is necessary, having in mind the terms of the agreed Defence White Paper that manned aircraft will last only ten years anyway, and this will come out when the reign of the manned bomber is gradually ending? Having in mind also the wide variety of aircraft we have—Lightnings, N.A.39s and Victor bombers—why is it necessary to spend £50 million on this project?
§ Mr. AmeryI think the hon. Gentleman has misunderstood the White Paper. We do not take the view that the use of manned aircraft will necessarily end in the ten years ahead. After careful study by all the responsible authorities, we do think that there is a need for this aircraft.
§ Mr. PagetIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the account of the purpose of this aeroplane given yesterday by the 1586 Minister of Defence is in conflict with the account of its purpose given when it was introduced by the then Minister of Supply? Can he account for this sudden change in the purpose of the aircraft?
§ Mr. AmeryI have not the two texts before me, but if the hon. and learned Gentleman will put down a Question I will answer it.