§ Mr. Trotterasked the Secretary of State for Defence when the Royal Air Force first submitted a requirement for heavy lift helicopters; on what occasions this requirement has been cut from defence plans; how many Chinooks are now to be bought, when will they enter service to what extent they will be based in Germany; and what will be their rôle.
§ Dr. GilbertA requirement for a small number of helicopters capable of lifting heavier loads than the Wessex was first drawn up in 1965. The planned procurement was cancelled in 1967. The requirement was again endorsed in 1970, but the proposed purchase was abandoned before on order had been placed. Subsequent plans for a medium-lift helicopter were abandoned in 1975 following the defence review. The military requirement is now being reassessed, but no final decisions have yet been taken on procurement.