HC Deb 12 February 1968 vol 758 cc938-9
25. Mr. Onslow

asked the Minister of Technology what research his Department has conducted into the potential world markets for the Rolls Royce RB207 and RB211 engines.

Mr. Stonehouse

Market research carried out in collaboration with the manufacturers has shown that both the RB207 and RB211 engines should be highly competitive in world markets. The RB207 is already specified for the European airbus.

Mr. Onslow

If the European airbus does not materialise, will the RB207 go into any other airframe? Is there any airframe which the Minister can particularise for which the RB211 has been specified?

Mr. Stonehouse

I do not follow the question. The European airbus will materialise. We are going to build it.

33. Mr. Maxwell-Hyslop

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make a statement on the latest position in the negotiations about the specification of the Rolls Royce RB211 engine for the United States airbus.

Mr. Stonehouse

With the full support of Her Majesty's Government Rolls Royce are offering the RB211 for both the Lockheed and McDonnell-Douglas versions of the United States airbus. No decision has yet been made.

Mr. Maxwell-Hyslop

What technical support is the Minister's Department giving at diplomatic level in the United States? Is there a representative present there so that he can be on call in these very major negotiations?

Mr. Stonehouse

The highest possible support has been provided to Rolls Royce in its attempt to get the RB211 into the American airbus. Our Ambassador in the United States is doing a great deal to assist.