§ 1. Mr. Derek Pageasked the Minister of Aviation whether he will initiate feasibility studies regarding a sub-orbital airliner.
§ The Minister of Aviation (Mr. Roy Jenkins)In the present state of our knowledge it would be premature to embark on feasibility studies of a sub-orbital airliner but limited research into the problems of hypersonic flight is proceeding.
§ Mr. PageWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind that this is the ultimate airliner in any further projects following on the Concord, and does not he agree that it is as well to bear in mind the implications regarding the aerospace launcher along the lines suggested by the British Interplanetary Society?
§ Mr. JenkinsI shall bear this implication in mind, but I want to make progress, as I hope we shall, with the Concord before we devote too many energies to looking too far ahead.