HC Deb 10 February 1971 vol 811 cc500-1
3. Mr. Cronin

asked the Minister of Aviation Supply if he will make a statement on the development and sales of the Hawker Siddeley Harrier Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft and if he will indicate what arrangements are being made for its manufacture and sale with the McDonnell Douglas Corporation of the United States of America.

5. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Aviation Supply if he will make a statement about the supply of Harrier aircraft to the United States Marine Corps.

Mr. Corfield

Development of the aircraft as an operational weapons system is now substantially completed. The United States Marine Corps has ordered 30 aircraft for delivery in 1971 and 1972 and has authorised orders for long-dated materials for a further 30 aircraft for delivery in 1973. Other countries are showing considerable interest. Hawker Siddeley Aviation has negotiated with the McDonnell Douglas Corporation for the manufacture of Harriers in the U.S.A. but the 30 aircraft so far ordered are being produced in this country.

Mr. Cronin

Although, obviously, there are some advantages in using the commercial sales organisation and other facilities in McDonnell Douglas, will the right hon. Gentleman do what he can to ensure that the Harriers are manufactured as far as possible by a British company?

Mr. Corfield

I am sure that the hon. Gentleman appreciates that this is a question for the decision of the American Government. It is, clearly, preferable to us that the Harriers should be manufactured in this country.

Mr. Wall

To what extent are future major orders tied up with manufacture in the United States? Do we expect to make any sales to the United States Navy as opposed to the Marine Corps?

Mr. Corfield

At the moment there is no tie-up as my hon. Friend suggests. I expect that if the United States Navy or Army reproduces these orders, the United States Government will wish to consider their attitude towards manufacture in the United States.

Mr. McMaster

What pressure is my right hon. Friend bringing to bear on the Royal Navy to order versions of the Harrier for use by the Royal Navy with its carriers?

Mr. Corfield

That is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence.

Back to