HC Deb 20 January 1971 vol 809 cc1037-8
2. Mr. Marten

asked the Minister of Aviation Supply if he will make a statement on future supersonic projects for the British aircraft industry.

The Minister of Aviation Supply (Mr. Frederick Corfield)

I think that we must at this stage concentrate on making a success of Concorde.

Mr. Marten

I agree with the Minister in that profound statement, but could he say what research is going on for the next stage, that is, research into hypersonic flight?

Mr. Corfield

Very little at the present moment.

3. Mr. Marten

asked the Minister of Aviation Supply if he will make a state- ment on future subsonic projects for the British aircraft industry.

Mr. Corfield

I take the Question to apply to civil projects. The Government are not responsible for finding projects for the industry; the initiative lies with the manufacturers. But I am prepared to consider any applications for Government launching aid.

Mr. Marten

What is being done by the industry to develop short take-off and landing aircraft, primarily in order to avoid congestion on the short air traffic routes?

Mr. Corfield

Several studies are in progress both in my Department and in the industry. We hope to be able to study these thoroughly in the next few weeks, but I do not think that there is much prospect of a project which will go into development in the near future.

Mr. Dalyell

Do these studies involve other European countries at present?

Mr. Corfield

Yes, Sir.