§ 5. Mr. Martenasked the Minister of Aviation if he will now give details of the Government's national space programme of satellite technology based on the Black Arrow launcher.
§ Mr. StonehouseThe programme is designed to improve our technological capability by developing and ground-testing satellite components and subassemblies and then testing them in space. It provides for development of the Black Arrow launcher to be completed by the end of 1969 and experimental satellites launched at approximately yearly intervals thereafter.
§ Mr. MartenCan the Minister state the total expenditure on this space programme and over how many years it will be spread? Secondly, what proportion of the prime contracts are being offered to American industry with British contractors as sub-contractors? If this is being done, what is the reason for it?
§ Mr. StonehouseIn answer to the first part of the question, the expenditure authorised is a total value of nearly £3 million. In regard to the second part, I will make inquiries and write to the hon. Member.