HC Deb 16 November 1966 vol 736 cc433-4
56. Mr. A. Royle

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will give an assurance that he has no intention of cancelling, deferring or cutting down the order for the P1127 as the result of Her Majesty's Government's recent consideration of the matter.

Mr. Healey

There has been no change in the plan to replace the Hunter by a combination of the U.S. Phantom and the British P1127.

Mr. Royle

The right hon. Gentleman has not answered the Question. Has there been any consideration of cutting down or cancelling the present order which has been placed, or is in the process of being placed, for the P1127 aircraft?

Mr. Healey

With respect, that is not the Question and I did answer it.

Mr. R. Carr

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is the point of the Question, that there are constant reports circulating to say that the Government statement in the Defence White Paper about using the P1127 is being reconsidered?

Mr. Healey

Perhaps I can set the right hon. Gentleman's mind at rest by saying that full financial authority has been given for the programme to pro- ceed and contract negotiations for the first large production order are nearly complete.

Rear-Admiral Morgan Giles

In view of the potential importance of this aircraft for the protection of the Royal Navy, will the Secretary of State be a little more forthcoming and say absolutely specifically that no change is intended in the programme for this aircraft?

Mr. Healey

If I were to be specific in that sense, I would rule out the supply of this aircraft for the Royal Navy.

Mr. Onslow

How many aircraft are concerned with the first production contract?

Mr. Healey

I am not in a position to give the exact number, but it is substantial.