§ 10. Mr. Onslowasked the Minister of Aviation Supply what steps he is taking to evaluate the most recent research into reduced take-off and landing techniques; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David PriceI have been asked to reply.
None specifically, Sir. We are continuing to support exploratory background studies into STOL techniques which are closely relevant.
§ Mr. OnslowWhile they may be closely relevant, does my hon. Friend agree that no public money appears to have been spent on research into this technique over the past five years, and that it is extremely important that there should be an evaluation of its possibilities in civil use before any final decision is made about locating new airports?
§ Mr. PriceMy hon. Friend will realise that there is no precise agreement on the definitions of where STOL ends and RTOL begins. We are working on the basis that fields up to 2,000 feet count as STOL and from 2,500 to 4,000 feet as RTOL. Much of the work on STOL embraces the lower end of RTOL.
§ Mr. BishopIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the urgency of the matter in relation to the siting of new airports? Has he any comments about the meeting 1160 which I understand took place this week in Europe with the French and other countries about the future European development of this project?
§ Mr. PriceI am not aware of there being a particular European project as such. I do not think any country has reached a project stage. Studies are going on all over the world.