§ 39. Mr. Roebuckasked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress has been made with Rapier.
§ Mr. MasonThe development of Rapier is now well advanced and the missile has already proved successful in test firings. Full evaluation trials are due to start early next year.
§ Mr. RoebuckIs my hon. Friend aware that that news will be welcomed by those who believe that the House has a duty to see that its troops are properly equipped? Can he say what the research and development costs have been and what is the possibility of exporting this weapon to our allies?
§ Mr. MasonI cannot offhand give the research and development costs, but there is a good chance of exporting this extremely good piece of equipment, which is a surface-to-air guided weapon for use against low-flying aircraft, and which seems to be coming in at a time when it is really required.