HL Deb 04 December 1967 vol 287 cc359-60

2.40 p.m.

LORD BALFOUR OF INCHRYE

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have decided that Government support is to be given to the development of the BAC 2–11 asked for by British European Airways; or whether support is to be given for the development of some alternative type.]

LORD BESWICK

My Lords, devaluation has necessitated a reappraisal of the relevant financial data, and I am sorry that it is not yet possible to reach a decision.

LORD BALFOUR OF INCHRYE

My Lords, arising out of that reply, and while quite understanding the complications involved in a reappraisal, would the Minister be so good as to say how long he thinks will still be needed before a decision is reached, in view of the increasing degree of damage to British civil aviation prospects in the future through these unfortunate delays?

LORD BESWICK

My Lords, may I first of all say that the noble Lord is very kind to me. I thought he was going to quote the forecast I gave the last time he asked the question; namely, that I anticipated a decision within the last month. But after that experience I am reluctant to say anything more except that the decision will be given as soon as possible.

LORD BALFOUR OF INCHRYE

My Lords, if I put down a Question in a fortnight's time, does the Minister feel that there would be a positive and definite response then?

LORD BESWICK

My Lords, I really refuse to be drawn. Having been bitten once, I am shy about a second time. But let me put it this way to the noble Lord. I should have thought that the delay was a good sign, so far as he was concerned, knowing as I do that he favours the purchase of the 2–11.

EARL AMHERST

My Lords, may I ask the Minister this question, of which I have not given him prior notice? In view of the changed circumstances, both the devaluation and the fact that Lufthansa is reported not to be in favour of buying the air bus, is there any news which the noble Lord can give us about the development of that aircraft?

LORD BESWICK

No, my Lords. The position about the air bus remains as before. There has been an agreement between the three Governments, and although I know of the statement to which the noble Lord refers, that of course was not a statement by representatives of the German Government, and the joint study is proceeding.