HC Deb 14 June 1971 vol 819 cc20-1
21. Mr. Sheldon

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a further statement on the progress of Concorde.

Mr. John Davies

Since my statement on 10th May Concorde has made a number of further flight tests. In addition it has flown to Dakar and appeared at the Paris Air Show where it attracted considerable interest.

Mr. Sheldon

Continued interest is not enough. Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that what causes concern is that the Government are continuing to pour out millions of £s while the decision has not been made? What is the minimum number of firm orders he requires before deciding to go ahead with the production of this aircraft in proper production numbers, and why is he not setting a deadline for the receipt of such orders?

Mr. Davies

I do not agree with the expression "a decision has not been made". A decision has been made to press ahead with the development of this aircraft. On the question of production and orders, there is a great interest by the airlines. This interest cannot be converted into orders until the full details of performance guarantees are available, as they are not at the moment. I cannot reasonably be expected to reach any conclusion until I have in front of me the full details which my ultimate examination will bring out.

Mr. Adley

Would my right hon. Friend accept that many of us look to him as "our man in the Cabinet" over Concorde? Is he aware that not only have numerous French Ministers, including the French President, flown in the plane but also the United States Secretary for Transportation? Does he realise that if he visits Bristol or Fairford and takes a flight in the aeroplane many thousands of people employed on the project will be delighted to give him an enormous welcome?

Mr. Davies

Nothing would give me greater pleasure but my right hon. Friend the Minister for Aerospace has priority over me and will in due course, I hope in the near future, take such a flight.

Mr. Palmer

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that whatever other considerations there may be, if at any stage the Concorde project is cancelled it will add enormously to the already serious unemployment in the Bristol area?

Mr. Davies

The employment question is very much in my mind. As yet there is no question of this.