HC Deb 08 July 1964 vol 698 cc402-3
32. Mr. Neave

asked the Minister of Aviation what are the plans of the European Launcher Development Organisation for further development of the Organisation's launcher.

Mr. Amery

The European Launcher Development Organisation is carrying out certain studies in accordance with the provisions of its Convention. The object of these is to formulate proposals to member States for a further development programme beyond the initial programme.

Mr. Neave

Can my right hon. Friend say when he expects E.L.D.O. to come to a decision on its final proposals for a new launcher, and when the Government expect to have some national programme on the subject of space launchers and the need to create a space industry?

Mr. Amery

The organisation is due to put the proposals to the member States in the autumn. I think that the end of October is the official date, although I should not be surprised if it were delayed a few weeks beyond that.

With regard to the national space programme, we are at present spending about £12 million to £15 million a year on space, including a good deal on research and various feasibility studies. We are now considering whether there are any further steps which ought to be taken at the present time.