§ Mr. McNamaraasked the Secretary of State for Defence what sum of money he envisages Her Majesty's Government will have to pay to the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany in compensation for the imbalance which has occurred in the work-sharing on the Tornado project; if this sum will be paid in cash or in some other form; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ButlerThe most recently published estimate of United Kingdom under-payments against her cost liability is approximately £250 million. If this imbalance continues to the end of the programme, it may be necessary for a cash payment to be made. However, means of reducing the imbalance such as the possibility of work transfers to the United Kingdom are kept under regular review and will be implemented wherever practicable.
§ 41. Mr. Gerald Howarthasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement concerning export prospects for the Tornado aeroplane.
§ Mr. ButlerBritish Aerospace is currently pursuing several export prospects for the Tornado, with strong Government support, which we hope will prove successful.