§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what representations he has had in the last six weeks from the French Government on the subject of a higher ceiling for the proposed Anglo-French variable geometry aircraft;
(2) what representations he has had from the French Government on the subject of a faster top speed for the proposed Anglo-French variable geometry aircraft;
(3) what representations he has had from the French Government for an improved specification of the Anglo-French variable geometry aircraft, above the basic requirement which was mutually decided upon in 1966.
§ Mr. MasonNone. As part of the studies aimed at producing a joint specification British and French officials have been examining a variety of differing performance characteristics, including some at French request for a higher standard.
§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has had in March/April, 1967, since the visit of General Steinhoff, for participation by the German Government in the Anglo-French variable geometry aircraft project.
§ Mr. MasonI have not had ally representation from the Government of the Federal Republic on this subject but, as my hon. Friend the Minister of State for Technology said in the debate on the adjournment on 22nd March, we shall continue with the French to press forward with the idea of aligning Germany with this project.—[Vol. 743, c. 1675–80.]
78W
§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence on what date he will hold discussions in London with representatives of the French Government on the project for an Anglo-French variable geometry aircraft.
§ Mr. MasonMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence hopes to meet the French Minister for the Armed Forces later this month.