§ 54. Mr. Hastingsasked the Minister of Technology whether he will make a statement on the progress on the European Airbus.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Technology (Mr. Gerry Fowler)The evaluation of the project is continuing, as planned, in preparation for an international Ministerial meeting later in the month.
§ Mr. HastingsDoes not the Minister realise that that is not good enough and that reticence and indecision over this joint project is leading to inevitable failure? Had he not better consider building on the success of Rolls with the R.B.211, withdraw from this scheme, and finance a British project?
§ Mr. FowlerWe are determined to go ahead with a commercially successful project, but not on a venture which would be merely political and not commercial. We hope that we shall be able to proceed with this project on a commercial basis, but we must allow proper time for evaluation and an agreed programme of Ministerial decision.
§ Mr. FortescueWhat are the latest indications from Paris and Bonn as to the likelihood of the French and German Governments buying this aeroplane?
§ Mr. FowlerI think the hon. Gentleman is aware that the German Government have given every indication that they intend that their national airline should purchase this aeroplane if the project is completed successfully. There is no further indication I can give the hon. Member.
§ Mr. HastingsOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.