HC Deb 16 March 1972 vol 833 cc736-7
4. Mr. Onslow

asked the Minister of State for Defence what plans he has to provide more effective air cover for the fleet at sea.

The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Royal Air Force (Lord Lambton)

Air cover for the fleet at sea will be provided by the aircraft complement of H.M.S. "Ark Royal", by helicopters carried in ships and by aircraft of the R.A.F. and of allied forces. The effectiveness of these forces will be increased as new aircraft and weapons enter service.

Mr. Onslow

Will my hon. Friend undertake not to be distracted by expedience from the important task of giving the Harrier much greater range and capability to provide cover for the Fleet in the open sea? In particular, will he undertake to see that the development of the Pegasus 15 engine is pressed ahead?

Lord Lambton

We are completing a feasibility study of the Pegasus 15 engine, and it is too early yet to say whether further steps will be taken. My hon. Friend will recognise that the Pegasus 15 cannot be accommodated in the existing Harrier without airframe modification.

Mr. Wilkinson

Will my noble Friend take note of the report that the Russians are constructing aircraft carriers? What credence does he give to the report that the hull laid down in Nikolayev is for an aircraft carrier capable of carrying V/STOL aircraft?

Lord Lambton

We will certainly take notice of that point.