HC Deb 25 October 1971 vol 823 cc1209-10
8. Mr. Carter

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the discussions he has had concerning the formation of a European aerospace policy and industry.

Mr. John Davies

I look forward to increasing co-operation with Europe and have had informal discussions to this end. More formal discussions will have to await the outcome of studies now in progress.

Mr. Carter

Is the Secretary of State aware that the case for a truly European aerospace industry is overwhelming, and that any attempt to sell the industry short, as in the disgraceful terms recently negotiated in the nuclear field, would merely result in a lessening of support? What negotiations have gone on with the E.E.C. on the aerospace industry?

Mr. Davies

First, there are the widespread discussions that automatically take place on Community projects, where there is community of action between British and Continental interests. That already creates a very wide field. In addition, informal discussions between Ministers have taken place. My right hon. Friend the Minister for Aerospace and I have had such informal discussions, which we shall pursue; but the matter requires deep study.

Mr. Wilkinson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the French are entering into a collaborative programme with the Americans for a medium-thrust turbofan? In these circumstances, it is imperative for us to be in collaboration with the Europeans on air frames suitable for European engine collaborative programmes as well, and the two must go together. Is that my right hon. Friend's view?

Mr. Davies

I am very conscious of my hon. Friend's point that it would be wrong to imagine that collaboration on air frames can be pursued entirely to the exclusion of collaboration on aero engines. That is very well realised.

Mr. Mason

Will the Secretary of State tell the House why the Marshall Committee was established, what are its terms of reference and whether the House can expect a report? Secondly, is this Committee covering some of the ground that should be covered by the Transport Aircraft Requirements Committee?

Mr. Davies

The Marshall Committee is an internal Governmental Committee and, as such, normally speaking, neither its terms of reference nor its report are disclosed. Whether I shall make a statement when I have the result of its work to hand remains to be seen, but I will consider that suggestion sympathetically.