§ 21. Mr. Croninasked the Minister of Aviation when he first invited aircraft companies to submit designs for a strategic freight-carrying aircraft for the Royal Air Force Transport Force in accordance with operational requirement 351; what companies have submitted designs; if changes have been made in the requirements; and when he expects to make a decision.
§ Mr. ThorneycroftIn response to invitations issued in March, 1961, the 924 Hawker Siddeley Group, the British Aircraft Corporation and Short Brothers and Harland have submitted preliminary proposals for a tactical transport aircraft to meet a possible Service requirement. This is now being reviewed in the light of the estimates received as to performance, delivery and costs, and I cannot yet say whether the requirement will be confirmed.
§ Mr. CroninIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that me British Army now has to travel by air with its light luggage, like holiday tourists? Will he therefore expedite the delivery of long-distance strategic air freighters to end this rather absurd situation?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftI always welcome suggestions for building aircraft, but on any assumption this is a very substantial and costly project, and I think the House would agree that it should be very carefully examined before it is finally approved.