§ 11. Mr. Wilkinsonasked the Minister of State for Defence when he hopes to replace the Whirlwind air/sea rescue helicopters in service with No. 18 (Maritime Group), Strike Command, Royal Air Force.
§ Mr. LambtonI have nothing yet to add to the answer I gave my hon. Friend on 28th January.—[Vol. 810, c. 177.]
§ Mr. WilkinsonAs my hon. Friend says that he has nothing yet to add, may I infer that hopeful news is coming? The "Sea King" is an aircraft of immense potential for anti-submarine work. If we had a sale for air/sea rescue, that would have a valuable effect on its overseas sales potential. This is an outstanding aeroplane and the Royal Air Force needs it for long-range air/sea rescue.
§ Mr. LambtonMy hon. Friend should read nothing into my reply except what I said.