HC Deb 31 May 1967 vol 747 c87
39. Mr. Goodhew

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to order the Handley Page Jetstream aircraft for use in the Royal Air Force.

Mr. Mason

None at present.

Mr. Goodhew

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this is a very economical replacement for some of the ageing communications and training aircraft in the Royal Air Force and that the company has procured many export orders which would be helped, in the direction of foreign air force orders, if the British Government were to order as early as possible?

Mr. Mason

I am aware of all those considerations, but we have no plans at present to buy a replacement for the aircraft which the hon. Gentleman mentioned.

Mr. Onslow

Is the hon. Gentleman looking for any British aircraft for the R.A.F.?

Mr. Mason

We are looking at two for the Varsity at the moment, anyway.