HC Deb 03 April 1979 vol 965 cc634-5W
Mr. Churchill

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if, further to the statement of the Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Royal Air Force—Official Report 27 March, c. 341—he will state the type of, and possible numbers of, additional air defence fighters, on the purchase of which a decision in principle has already been taken; and when he expects these aircraft to enter the service of the RAF; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Wellbeloved

As I have already indicated, the ways of meeting the requirement for more fighters are still the subject of detailed studies—[Vol. 965, c. 341.] As the hon. Gentleman knows from the measures already taken and announced to the House, the Government attach a high priority to improving the air defence capability of the United Kingdom.