HC Deb 08 December 1965 vol 722 c402
16. Mr. Brian Harrison

asked the Minister of Aviation what commission the British Government received in the sale of Bloodhound missiles to Australia.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

None, Sir. The only receipts from contractors in respect of the sale of Bloodhound equipment to Australia were for the use of jigs and tools provided at Government expense.

Mr. Harrison

Does the right hon. Gentleman not realise that there is a suspicion that the Government took a considerable cut out of this, and that this has been a deterrent in the ordering of other defence material and equipment from this country?

Mr. Jenkins

I do not think that for a moment. The hon. Member may be aware that I visited Australia recently, and I discussed the matter with those involved. There have been difficulties about this contract, as with similar contracts in this country, but the view which the hon. Member put was not put to me at all in Australia. I do not think it unreasonable that the Government should have some return where they have provided large capital investment in jigs and tools.