HC Deb 05 May 1975 vol 891 cc339-40W
Mr. Onslow

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether a Royal Navy order for the maritime Harrier is an essential pre-condition to any order for the aircraft from any other interested Government.

Mr. Judd

It is for other Governments to say what pre-conditions they will place on orders for British defence equipment.

Mr. Onslow

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the latest advice he has received from Hawker Siddeley and their sub-contractors about the shutdown dates for the Harrier aircraft production line in the absence of any additional orders.

Mr. John

It is not customary to disclose confidential exchanges of information of this nature between my Department and its contractors.

Mr. Onslow

asked the Secretary of State for Defence for what specific tasks the Royal Navy wants the maritime Harrier aircraft, and by what date.

Mr. Judd

If it is decided to introduce the aircraft into service with the Royal Navy it would be needed by about the end of the decade. It would provide a quick reaction capability for operations against enemy ships and aircraft, and for reconnaissance.