HC Deb 12 July 1983 vol 45 cc756-7
16. Mr. Robert Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to make public his decision on an anti-radar missile to be purchased for the Royal Air Force.

Mr. Heseltine

I expect to make a decision in the near future.

Mr. Atkins

Will my right hon. Friend find time today, or in the near future, to remind his Cabinet colleagues of the importance of an early decision on the missile? It should be the ALARM missile, for a number of reasons, including the fact that it is half the weight, half the cost, will not require the transfer of technology, is British and is best.

Mr. Heseltine

I cannot overpraise the zealousness of my hon. Friend in advancing a cause so close to his constituency. I assure him that my Cabinet colleagues will be fully apprised of all the arguments about the weapon system.