HC Deb 11 February 1986 vol 91 cc764-5
2. Mr. Norman Atkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what are the future prospects for the Westland EH101 helicopter programme; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of State for Defence Procurement (Mr. Norman Lamont)

The EH101 has numerous advanced design features which will give it an unrivalled capability in the anti-submarine warfare role in the Royal Navy and the Italian navy. We expect it to sell well in both military and civil markets worldwide.

Mr. Atkinson

Is the Minister aware that his predecessor said that the EH101 helicopter programme would be an integral part of our future defence strategy? Is he further aware that Sir John Cuckney is reported to have said on two occasions that the Westland Helicopter Company would not join in partnership or merge with any company which refused to accept all that was involved in the EH101 programme? As Sikorsky has said that it does not support the EH101, will the Minister reaffirm that the British intention is to support Westland with Europe rather than with Sikorsky?

Mr. Lamont

I shall consider carefully what the hon. Gentleman has said. My understanding is that the EH101 is likely to go ahead, whatever the outcome of the present dispute about the future of Westland.

Mr. Wilkinson

Is it not a fact that the sale of the EH101 to the United States, particularly the civil version, would be greatly facilitated by the support of a United States partner in Westland? As United Technologies-Sikorsky does not have an aeroplane of that class, does it not seem to be an ideal product for it to promote?

Mr. Lamont

My hon. Friend made that point in a recent debate. My hon. Friend, however skilful, will not tempt me to comment on the merits of the rival suitors for Westland.

Mr. Ashdown

Is the Minister aware that the Secretary of State and his predecessors have frequently said that whichever partner is chosen for Westland, it cannot affect the EH101? Is he further aware that Sikorsky, far from withdrawing its support for the EH101, has said that if the opportunity should arise it will assist in selling the EH101 to the United States? Does he agree that that may be a second experience, building on the profitable experience from the sale of Harrier, of selling excellent British defence equipment to the United States, thus creating the two-way stream that we have all sought?

Mr. Lamont

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for correcting the hon. Member for Tottenham (Mr. Atkinson). As I said in my reply, I do not believe that what he has said is correct.

Mr. Denzil Davies

Will the Minister confirm that the Ministry of Defence and the armed forces have no desire, need or money for the Black Hawk helicopter made by Sikorsky?

Mr. Lamont

The position on the Black Hawk is as was stated by my right hon. Friend the Member for Henley (Mr. Heseltine).