§ 2. Commander Courtneyasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether a requirement exists for the production of 3 a variable geometry carrier-borne multipurpose aircraft suitable for inter-Service use; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Secretary of State for Defence (Mr. Denis Healey)We are reviewing all aspects of defence policy and until the review is complete I am not prepared to make any statement on this question.
§ Commander CourtneyDoes the right hon. Gentleman appreciate the great possibilities of the variable geometry principle at a time when our tactical air requirements all over the world have become more and more a question of operations from aircraft carriers? Does he realise what an important effect developments of this nature would have on the whole aviation industry, and on civil aviation, too?
§ Mr. HealeyThere is a great deal in what the hon. and gallant Gentleman says, but I am afraid that I am not prepared to comment further at this time.