§ 7. Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Air how many test Blue Steel missiles have been introduced into the Royal Air Force; when the completed missile is expected to be ready, and at what estimated cost; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. H. FraserThe introduction of operational Blue Steel missiles into the Royal Air Force has begun. It would not be in the public interest to quote numbers or production costs.
§ Mr. MasonMay I take it from the right hon. Gentleman's reply that the perfected missile is now being introduced into the Royal Air Force? Secondly, is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is some concern about the cost of the project? According to the Auditor-General's report in September, 1960, it had already cost £60 million. As 377 the missile is now going into production and being introduced into the Royal Air Force, would the right hon. Gentleman care to inform the House what the total cost has been—which is probably nearer £100 million?
§ Mr. FraserAs I have said, these are operational missiles which are going into the Royal Air Force. As to the cost, I think it is appreciated that in this House we do not reveal production costs—though research and development costs are occasionally revealed—for the hon. Gentleman will recognise that that is one of the quickest ways in which to give information to one's military opponents.
§ Mr. MulleyAlthough there may be difficulties about the details of production costs, surely the House will be told at some time what the whole cost of the programme has been?
§ Mr. FraserOver a period of years.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesSurely the right hon. Gentleman is entitled to give the House and the people who have to find this money some approximate idea of the cost? Is there not a possibility that the enemy will know it before the House of Commons does?
§ Mr. FraserNo, Sir. I have to look after the interests of both the House and the taxpayers, and I think that it is best done this way.