7. Mr. Alan Lee Williamsasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the timetable for a decision on a Jaguar/ Harrier replacement for the RAF.
§ Mr. JohnRAF Harrier and Jaguar aircraft entered service comparatively recently and should not need to be replaced until the late 1980s. Studies of 207 the operational requirement to be met by any replacement aircraft are continuing, including the possibilities for collaboration but it will be some time before any final decision needs to be taken.
Mr. WilliamsAs the Warsaw Pact air forces are increasing both in range and capability, does my hon. Friend agree that it is important for the Atlantic Alliance to have quality aircraft?
§ Mr. JohnYes, I agree that quality is an extremely important factor. That is why we are undertaking a study of the possibility of collaboration in this project.