§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Minister of Technology what cut back has taken place at the Royal Aircraft Establishment on research into hypersonic flight, and why.
§ Mr. BennIn line with the Plowden Committee's recommendation that preference should be accorded to research assisting the more modest types of aircraft and weapons our research into hypersonic flight has, over the past two years, been critically reviewed and progressively reduced. From being a main commitment, it is now at a minimum level consistent with our maintaining an interest in the field as a possible springboard for the future.