§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Defence what contribution his Department made in support of the Nimrod aircraft to the work undertaken last month in connection with the need for a NATO airborne early warning force; what representations he made on the advantages of the Nimrod over the United States Boeing E38; and if he will make a statement.
§ Dr. GilbertWe have left our NATO allies in no doubt as to the capabilities of the Nimrod. The immediate need is for a collective NATO decision. We hope that this will be reached shortly. An announcement will be made at the appropriate stage.