HC Deb 15 July 1986 vol 101 cc835-6
1. Mr. Stern

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will estimate the future procurement by his Department of Rolls-Royce aero engines, and engines in which Rolls-Royce plc has a participation, over the next five years.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence Procurement (Mr. John Lee)

Over the next five years the Department foresees continuing purchases of R B 199, Pegasus, Gnome and Gem engines in sufficient quantities to meet the requirements of the services.

Mr. Stern

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for that reply. Does he agree that, on the military side, the company's order book, especially because of its own efforts in obtaining export orders, has never looked healthier? My hon. Friend's answer will give confidence to the work force and the management in looking forward to the continued prosperity of the company when it is privatised.

Mr. Lee

As the Rolls-Royce, Barnoldswick factory is in my constituency, I am especially proud of the achievements which have been made by Rolls-Royce during the past few years. Privatisation is, of course, a matter for the Department of Trade and Industry, but I understand that it is intended that the flotation will take place during the first half of 1987. Defence orders will play a considerable part in that flotation.

Mr. Carter-Jones

Will the Minister say something about the RTM 322 helicopter engine? Will he also consider doing something about new engines and prop jet engines, as is being done at NASA for the Americans?

Mr. Lee

The RTM 322 is being developed by Rolls-Royce and Turbo Meca. It is a mainly private venture operation. It is a contender for the EHI01, but at present no decisions have been taken.

Mr. Hayward

Would not the prospects for Rolls-Royce after privatisation both in Britain and abroad be further improved if orders could be gained for a super Pegasus engine, which is currently being developed at Filton?

Mr. Lee

There is a Rolls-Royce initiative to uprate the GR5 Pegasus engine. Although there is a formal requirement for this at the present time, we are attracted by its lower life-cycle costs and better performance. We are looking at it in conjunction with the United States marine corps.

Mr. Wilkinson

Will my hon. Friend explain the position vis-a-vis funding from his Department for the XG40 programme, which we hope will be the basis for the new engine for the European fighter aircraft?

Mr. Lee

I cannot give a precise answer at this stage, but I shall endeavour to write to my hon. Friend.

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