§ 3. Sir Jim SpicerTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what proposals he has for methods by which Her Majesty's Government can enhance the sale prospects of the EH101.
§ Mr. SainsburyMy Department has provided £60 million of launch aid for the civil version of the EH101. We shall help to promote export sales of the civil version through our overseas trade services and we are ready to respond to any requests for assistance in pursuing civil export sales prospects.
§ Sir Jim SpicerDoes my right hon. Friend agree that the development of the EH101 has been a remarkable success for European co-operation? Beyond that, does he understand that the export market for the EH101 will bring jobs to Westland—a highly successful company—and to 600 small businesses throughout the country? Will he do all that he can to ensure that his Department helps in every way possible to secure the success of an overseas export drive?
§ Mr. SainsburyI am happy to agree with my hon. Friend's assessment of progress on the EH101 and of the potential market for that excellent helicopter in Europe and elsewhere. I assure my hon. Friend that we in the Department of Trade and Industry will do all that we can to help sales of the civil version both overseas and at home.