HC Deb 30 November 1964 vol 703 c27
36. Mr. Goodhew

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to receive replacements for the Shackleton aircraft of Coastal Command; and what aircraft these will be.

Mr. Healey

I have nothing to add to the Answer I gave on 16th November, 1964.

Mr. Goodhew

Is there not an urgent need for replacement of this aircraft? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this matter was in the minds of the previous Government and that it is essential for the Services to have a decision at an early date? Is he further aware that it is also in the interest of our own aircraft industry that we should know whether this aircraft will be built here or abroad?

Mr. Healey

I am reviewing the content of the defence programme, including the question of replacing the Shackleton, and I am not prepared to go beyond that statement at the present time.

Mr. A. Royle

Is the right hon. Gentleman considering the purchase of a foreign aircraft as a replacement? Will he answer "yes" or "no"?

Mr. Healey

It would not be fair to list the aircraft we are considering but they include all those which may conceivably meet our requirements.