§ 17. Sir Ian Orr-Ewingasked the Secretary of State for Defence what sums have been allocated in each of the next five financial years for the payment of interest and repayment of the loans made by the United States of America to the United Kingdom for the purchase of United States military aircraft.
§ Mr. John MorrisThe following sums have been allocated: 1970–71—£55 million; l971–72—£56 million; 1972–73—£55 million; 1973–74—£50 million, and 1974–75—£41 million.
§ Sir Ian Orr-EwingIs the Minister aware that I am most grateful that the country should know just what it has cost in American dollars to cancel a British aircraft and buy American aircraft; and how wise it is to leave it to the next Government to clear up the mess that is left?
§ Mr. MorrisThe hon. Gentleman is equally aware that when this issue of the financing of the aircraft that we require was debated in the House, neither he nor any of his colleagues voted against the Measure.
§ Mr. Robert HowarthCan my hon. Friend confirm that the original decision to order American aircraft was taken by members of the Opposition?
§ Mr. MorrisYes, Sir, for some of the Phantoms.
§ Sir Ian Orr-EwingOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the inaccurate reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment.