§ 10. Mr. Farrasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on plans for co-operation with Italy for future helicopter production for defence purposes.
§ 14. Mr. Nichollsasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the present position as regards the European helicopter project EH101; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PattieThe main development contract for the EH101 helicopter was signed in Rome last week, on 7 March. This completes the launching process into programme full development so that we can now look forward to the successful development and introduction into naval and commercial service of this important aircraft, in collaboration with our Italian partners.
§ Mr. FarrI thank my hon. Friend for that information. Can he say how many helicopters will be ordered for use by the Royal Navy and what progress the Ministry of Defence is making towards getting a British engine, such as the one produced by Rolls-Royce, to power the new helicopter?
§ Mr. PattieThe Royal Navy order will be for about 70 aeroplanes. It is expected that the helicopter will initially have American GE700 engines, but we hope to announce soon a collaborative venture with France on the RTM322 engine. If the venture is successful, the engine will be available for inclusion later in the life of the aeroplane.
§ Mr. NichollsWill my hon. Friend accept that his announcement, coupled with the announcement last month of about £60 million launch aid for Westland Aircraft's helicopters, will be welcome news throughout the west country, not just in the Yeovil area?
§ Mr. PattieI am grateful to my hon. Friend for that comment.