HC Deb 06 April 1976 vol 909 cc206-7
7. Mr. Alan Lee Williams

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the timetable for a decision on a Jaguar/ Harrier replacement for the RAF.

Mr. John

RAF Harrier and Jaguar aircraft entered service comparatively recently and should not need to be replaced until the late 1980s. Studies of 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. Williams

As 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. John

Yes, 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.