§ 48. Mr. Colvinasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received regarding launch aid for the A330 and A340 Airbus projects.
§ Mr. PattieMy Department has received representations in favour of launch aid being provided for the A330/A340 from a number of hon. Members and from others with an interest in these projects.
50. Mr. Jim Callaghanasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on Government support for Airbus.
§ Mr. PattieThe Government support, in principle, the development of the Airbus family of aircraft to cover a wider market range and hope that British Aerospace will participate in the new Airbus projects which prove to have strong prospects of commercial viability. The importance to the United Kingdom civil aircraft industry of participation in the Airbus programme is also recognised by the Government. British Aerospace's application for launch aid, which was submitted on 17 October, is being carefully considered. The Government will announce their decisions on BAe's application in due course.