§ 31. Mr. Whiteheadasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when he expects to announce his decision on the funding of an up-rated version of the RB211.
§ Mr. John DaviesThe Chairman of Lockheed raised this with me when I met him on 10th April. I am in discussion with Rolls-Royce (1971) about this question and have just received proposals from them.
§ Mr. WhiteheadIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, despite the Prime Minister's changes in the Government's team, this problem goes on just the same, and that if we are to get a proper production run for this fine aircraft it is necessary for a full range of planes to be 903 offered? Since Lockheed proposes that the plane should be built, what is the reason for the delay by the Government?
§ Mr. DaviesThere is no delay at all. As the hon. Gentleman perhaps knows, it is Lockheed's hope to be able to announce its intention to proceed with a stretched version later this year. Lockheed would not say that there is any delay on the part of Rolls-Royce (1971) Ltd., or on the part of Her Majesty's Government. It would not be the case.
§ Mr. MillanDoes not the decision whether to go ahead depend largely on orders for the present TriStar? In relation to the BAB and the possibility of an order, since the intention seems to be that an order will be placed, is there not a case for its being placed soon? Does the BAB appreciate that point?
§ Mr. DaviesThe BAB fully understands the exact problem which faces both it and the manufacturers and it is taking an exceedingly responsible view in relation to it, as it is in relation to the expenditure of public money.
§ Mr. RostIs not the present TriStar's success closely related to the ability of Lockheed to offer a stretched version?
§ Mr. DaviesI think that it is, generally speaking, regarded as a sign of a successful aircraft to be able to engender a family of aircraft. This I appreciate fully. But at the moment the need is to ensure that the present version is a highly successful commercial venture.