HL Deb 21 May 1975 vol 360 cc1281-2

2.41 p.m.

Lord TREFGARNE

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 propose to operate the Multi-Role Combat Aircraft ordered for the RAF as a high-level interceptor; and, if so, whether they are satisfied that its engine power and wing area are adequate for this purpose.

Lord WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, the air defence variant of the MRCA is planned to be used as an interceptor capable of operating effectively over a range of heights. In this role, the effectiveness of the aircraft depends on its overall performance, taking account of its weapons, avionics and associated ground and airborne warning systems as well as the characteristics of the aircraft itself. The necessary project definition studies to validate this plan are in hand.

Lord TREFGARNE

My Lords, while thanking the noble Lord for that reply, may I ask whether he would not agree that it would be unwise to over economise in this area if, in the upshot, the high-level interceptor version of the MRCA is ineffective? And is he satisfied that there is sufficient stretch, both in the aircraft and in its engine ultimately, at least to fulfil this role properly?

Lord WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, the RB 199 is at a very early stage of development, and like, for instance, the Pegasus, I am certain that it has great growth potential within itself. I am sure that when this development has taken place—and we must remember that it is quite a way off—the aircraft will be able to perform satisfactorily.

Lord TREFGARNE

My Lords, while thanking the noble Lord once more, I should like to ask whether he is satisfied that if, in the upshot, despite our best attempts, the aircraft is not capable of performing satisfactorily as a high-level interceptor there will be other aircraft available to fulfil this role?

Lord WINTERBOTTOM

My Lords, I am satisfied with the technical expertise of the Royal Air Force in reaching a decision if that should be necessary, which I think is improbable.