HC Deb 05 March 1969 vol 779 cc405-6
10. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make a statement on his proposals for the development of vertical take-off and landing civil aircraft.

15. Mr. Fortescue

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make a statement on the progress made with the consideration of the vertical take-off and landing and short take-off and landing aircraft projects submitted to him.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

No, Sir. I have nothing to add to the reply that I gave to my hon. Friend on 26th February.—[Vol. 778, c. 304.]

Mr. Dalyell

Is it too soon to start discussions with European countries both on the joint marketing of V/STOL aircraft and on the provision of landing facilities in cities in Europe?

Mr. Mallalieu

I do not think it is too soon to start considering those matters. No doubt that is being done.

Mr. Fortescue

Is the Minister aware that it is much later than he thinks? Has he seen the reports that the American Sikorski Company will have an 86-seater 350-miles range helicopter in service with airlines in 1973? Will the Minister assure the House that no time will be wasted in pronouncing on the British scheme which he told me a month ago is in the Minister's head?

Mr. Mallalieu

Certainly no time will be wasted. The firms concerned have draft specifications on which they are working, and we hope to have their proposals on them in about four months.