§ 2.37 p.m.
§ VISCOUNT THURSOMy Lords, I beg to ask the first Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government when the outline specification far an aircraft for B.O.A.C. long-range routes in the period 1964–66 was prepared and what progress has since been made with the project.]
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER (THE EARL OF SELKIRK)My Lords, the outline specification for a long-range jet aircraft was issued to manufacturers by the Ministry of Supply on 7th February this year. This outline specification had naturally been under consideration for a little time, and was prepared under the ægis of the Transport Aircraft Requirements Committee. A number of design studies have now been received by the Ministry of Supply, and they are now being carefully examined. But I regret it is too early as yet to make any statement.
§ VISCOUNT THURSOMy Lords, could the noble Earl tell us whether this Committee is examining not only the design for the long-range transport aircraft to which he has referred but other designs for military aircraft as well?
§ THE EARL OF SELKIRKMy Lords, that is correct. This Committee is free to examine designs for any transport aircraft, whether military or civil.