§ 7. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Technology what action he will take to emphasise the international aspect of 393 aviation development and achievement at the next and subsequent exhibitions at Farnborough.
§ Mr. BennI have discussed the arrangements for next year's Farnborough Air Show with the S.B.A.C. Exhibitors of any nationality will be able to display their aircraft provided they contain a significant proportion of British equipment.
§ Mr. RankinIs my right hon. Friend aware that that Answer is welcome as far as it goes? Is it not the case, however, that this arrangement will prevent the Russians from showing any of their aircraft, and will also limit what the Americans show? Is he aware that the exhibits of both countries attracted enormous attention at the Paris Show?
§ Mr. BennAs my hon. Friend knows, S.B.A.C. broadened its criteria for admission in 1966, and is proposing to broaden it again in 1968, in the way that I have indicated. Looking beyond that, because it is too close to make any changes for next year, a number of considerations are in mind, and the ones that my hon. Friend has raised are among them. I cannot give any undertaking a, to which way the decision might go.
§ Mr. EmeryWould the right hon. Gentleman elucidate a little further on his phrase "… a considerable proportion of British equipment"? This is a terribly vague phrase, and it does not give the House much information. What does he mean by this? Does he mean a majority, or just the radar equipment? What is in his mind?
§ Mr. BennIs is not what is in my mind because the word was not "considerable", It was "significant". It is easier to define "significant" than "considerable" and if that gives any comfort to the hon. Gentleman, I offer it to him. This is a decision for the S.B.A.C.