HC Deb 08 November 1967 vol 753 cc1024-5
32. Mr Bishop

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on progress with regard to the proposed Anglo-French helicopter deal.

33. Mr. Murray

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will make a statement on the Anglo-French helicopter deal.

68. Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether progress has been maintained on other Anglo-French collaborative projects since the cancellation of the Anglo-French variable geometry aircraft.

Mr. Healey

The Anglo-French Martel, Jaguar and Helicopter programmes are going well. Development of both Martel and Jaguar is well advanced and preparations are in hand for the start of production. At a meeting of Ministers in Paris last month agreement was reached to start joint production on the tactical SA330 helicopter and to embark on the full development of the light SA340 and utility WG13. A Rolls-Royce Bristol Siddeley engine was adopted for the WG13.

Mr. Bishop

Is not my right hon. Friend a little concerned about future prospects of collaboration with the French in view of their attitude to the A.F.V.G. and towards our application to join the E.E.C.?

Mr. Healey

No, Sir. My impression is that where there is a clear common interest to be achieved which is accepted in principle in advance, it is possible to work out agreements in detail and stick to them. There is a clear common interest between Britain and France that these programmes should succeed.

Mr. Murray

Will my right hon. Friend give a categorical assurance that the programme will not become predominantly French as against Anglo-French?

Mr. Healey

Yes, Sir. We have taken care, particularly in the case of the helicopter, to balance out the work of design and production between the two countries.