§ 19. Mr. Onslowasked the Minister of Aviation what is the purpose of his negotiations with Pressed Steel Fisher about the future of the Beagle Aircraft Company; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MulleyWe have been considering means by which the future of the Beagle Aircraft Company, which is a subsidiary of Pressed Steel Fisher Limited, can be assured. Discussions are still proceeding with Pressed Steel and I will make a further statement as soon as possible.
§ Mr. OnslowCan the right hon. Gentleman say, first, whether he sees this—as his Answer appears to imply—as a rescue operation? Secondly, has he any intention of amalgamating the Government share in this company with the Government's share in the bigger airframe merger?
§ Mr. MulleyI cannot answer either question, because until a decision is known I shall not know whether it is possible to do either of the things that the hon. Gentleman suggests.