HC Deb 02 July 1985 vol 82 cc116-7W
23. Mr. Ron Davies

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement concerning his recent discussions on the European fighter aircraft.

31. Mr. Gerald Howarth

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the European fighter aircraft.

32. Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will now make a statement on the European fighter aircraft.

Mr. Favell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the progress of the discussions on the proposed European fighter aircraft.

Mr. Butler

The further industrial studies commissioned by Ministers of the five participating countries at their meeting in London on 18 June are proceeding. Industry has been asked to submit its proposals by mid-July and Ministers will review the position shortly thereafter. We will continue to do all we can to reach an agreement acceptable to all parties and which would enable project definition to be launched on a five nation, collaborative basis; to be acceptable to the United Kingdom the aircraft would have to have adequate performance and the interests of British industry properly safeguarded.