HC Deb 11 March 1975 vol 888 cc88-9W
Mr. Townsend

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the progress of the sale of 800 Chieftain tanks to Iran.

Mr. William Rodgers:

It is not our normal practice to disclose the details of individual arms deals with other Governments, but I can confirm that we are making good progress with this sale.

Mr. Townsend

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is satisfied with the current performance of the engine of the Chieftan tank; and if he will make a statement on the development of this engine.

Mr. William Rodgers:

On the whole, yes. I think we have now overcome the difficult problems that inevitably arise with a new kind of engine.