HC Deb 19 February 1951 vol 484 c142W
105. Major McCallum

asked the Minister of Supply what is the present position in regard to the development and construction of helicopters in Great Britain; how many are under manufacture; and what is the position in regard to the Bristol 173 in particular.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

Five types of helicopter are being developed by firms in Great Britain under contracts placed by my Department and three more, basically of foreign design, as private ventures. Of these eight, two types of 4-seater helicopter are in production. Trials of the Bristol 173, which is covered by a Ministry of Supply development contract, are expected to begin in the near future.