HC Deb 02 July 1974 vol 876 cc190-1
4. Mr. Adley

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what future plans he has for the Harrier.

The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Royal Air Force (Mr. Brynmor John)

The Harrier is currently giving very satisfactory service with the Royal Air Force. Earlier aircraft are being fitted with more powerful engines and other improvements are planned including the fitting of advanced laser ranger equipment. In the longer term we are continuing to study possible further development of the aircraft.

Mr. Adley

Will the Minister give a categorical assurance that the Labour Government are not considering a TSR2 solution for the Harrier? Will he further say whether the Labour Government and the Labour Party have any political reasons for not pushing ahead as fast as possible with an attempt to sell the Harrier to the Government of China?

Mr. John

Since the TSR2 never flew—

Mr. Churchill

Oh, yes, it did.

Mr. John

It never flew operationally.

Mr. Churchill

Whose fault was that?

Mr. John

I marvel at the eloquence of sedentary Conservative Members. If they were as witty on their feet they would be a credit to the House. The Harrier is operational. It is giving the Royal Air Force valuable service. In regard to defence sales I am sure that any legitimate requests will be taken into account.

Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles

Has the Minister made a detailed analysis of the export potential of the maritime Harrier if a few were ordered for the Royal Navy?

Mr. John

The maritime Harrier is another question, which is being studied separately.