§ 19. Mr Fortescueasked the Minister of Technology whether he has now completed his consideration of the proposal for a modification of the VC10 aircraft for tanker purposes.
§ Mr. StonehouseThe study of the modifications proposed by the British Aircraft Corporation has been completed and is being taken into account in our consideration of the future needs of the R.A.F.
§ Mr. FortescueSince we are rapidly approaching the time, if we have not yet already reached it, when the V-bombers, being used as tankers, will have themselves to be refuelled while in the process of refuelling other 'planes, would not the hon. Gentleman agree that there is a certain amount of urgency about this project?
§ Mr. StonehouseIt is for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence to decide what are the needs of the R.A.F. in this connection.