HC Deb 13 December 1967 vol 756 cc413-4
21. Mr. Raphael Tuck

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he has considered official United States objections to the F111, details of which are in his possession; whether he is satisfied that this aircraft is suitable for purchase by this country; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mason

I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the fighter version of the F111 aircraft which is being developed for the United States Navy. We are not purchasing this aircraft.

Mr. Tuck

Is my hon. Friend aware that the Americans did not find satisfactory the aircraft which we are purchasing? Is not this an extra reason for reconsidering the matter? Why were we told, at the time when the TSR2 was scrapped, that we did not need aircraft of this kind?

Mr. Mason

My hon. Friend is misinformed. It is satisfying the United States Air Force, although their specifications are different from ours. I am quite satisfied, however, that it will satisfy us when delivered.

Mr. Powell

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that all the reasons previously given for the purchase of this aircraft related to operations outside Europe, and there has been a complete reversal in the past few months?

Mr. Mason

The right hon. Gentleman knows that that is not true. It has been part of the argument that this aircraft would be capable of deployment East of Suez if required, but it has always had a Western European capability.

Mr. James Davidson

As the Government can see their way to taking a sensible decision to cancel the TSR2, what is there to prevent their taking a similar decision to cancel the F111K?

Mr. Mason

The Canberras are now gradually coming out of service. The F111 will supplement the V-bomber force in Europe, and, if we did not have an operational strike-reconnaissance aircraft of this kind, we should be dependent on the French in Europe and on United States cover in N.A.T.O.