§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what discussions he has had with British Aerospace about possible orders to be placed by his Department for new Jetstream aircraft; what the outcome has been; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what representations or request he has received concerning the relaunch of the ATP aircraft as Jetstream 61; what action he has taken as a result; and if he will make a statement;
(3) what representations he has received concerning the replacement of the Jetstream aircraft currently operated by the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force with new aircraft; what discussions or action have followed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AitkenA number of representations concerning the replacement of Royal Navy and Royal Air Force Jetstream aircraft have been received. My officials maintain a regular dialogue with British Aerospace to discuss future requirements. However, there is currently no requirement for turbo-prop aircraft to replace those in-service with the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force. Should a future requirement emerge, British Aerospace would have every opportunity to compete.