§ Mr. Warrenasked the Secretary of State for Defence what rights have Her Majesty's Government in the future development of the Harrier aircraft by the United States of America.
§ Mr. JohnA firm decision on an advanced Harrier has not yet been taken by either the American or United Kingdom Governments. We are currently engaged with the Americans in a joint study of the feasibility of an advanced Harrier. We have an agreement with them that, if because of the difference in the timescale and nature of the United States of America and United Kingdom requirements, they decide to launch a development programme to meet their own needs before we are in a position to decide on our own requirements for such an aircraft, a suitable option will be negotiated to enable us to join their programme at a later stage should we wish to do so. To the extent that existing Harrier technology was involved in any American programme we would have a right to a share in any royalties payable in respect of work carried out by United States firms and to make a levy on sales of items manufactured in the United Kingdom.