HC Deb 08 April 1971 vol 815 cc664-5
20. Mr. John

asked the Minister of State for Defence what discussions are currently taking place regarding the Exocet Weapon System; and what consideration is being given to the procurement of an alternative system.

Mr. Kirk

Negotiations with the French for the purchase of Exocet are still proceeding.

Mr. John

Would the hon. Gentleman take the opportunity of denying the report of the defence correspondent of The Guardian on 20th March that this missile is to be delivered later and will cost more and that the Government are now considering the whole of this weapon system?

Mr. Kirk

The hon. Gentleman really must not believe everything he reads in the newspapers.

Mr. Dalyell

What is the delay?

Mr. Kirk

There is not one. We are negotiating.