HC Deb 29 January 1969 vol 776 cc1308-9
10. Mr. J. H. Osborn

asked the Minister of Technology if he will list the projects for the development and construction of either short take-off and landing or vertical take-off and landing civil airline feeder aircraft which he is now sponsoring; what has been the financial allocation; how much has been spent so far; what stage of development has been reached; and what is the capability of each project.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

No proposals have yet been made by industry for Government assistance in the development of short take-off and landing or vertical take-off and landing civil aircraft. But extensive research to assess the prospects of this type of aircraft is being done. Some existing aircraft, partly backed by Government money, have a limited short take-off and landing capability.

Mr. Osborn

Is it not the fact that this is the form of transport of the future, bringing aircraft down on grass landing strips near city centres or on pads in city centres? Should not this matter be given active support by the Government of the day?

Mr. Mallalieu

I agree with the hon. Gentleman that on present understanding it seems to have enormous possibilities, and we are backing it.

Mr. Fortescue

Will the Minister confirm to the House that, whether or not there have been definite applications for financial assistance, at least one project from a leading firm of British airframe manufacturers is on the Minister's desk at present?

Mr. Mallalieu

I think that it is more than on the Minister's desk; it is in the Minister's head. There is not only one project; there are two, and they are extremely interesting.