HC Deb 07 February 1949 vol 461 cc15-6W
85. Sir C. MacAndrew

asked the Minister of Supply whether he has any further statement to make as to the export of jet aircraft from this country since the war; and if so, to which countries.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

The countries to which jet aircraft have been exported since the war are as follow: Argentina, France, Norway, Belgium, Holland, Sweden, Canada, India, and Switzerland.

In replying to the hon. and gallant Member's supplementary question on 24th January, about the export of jet aircraft, I assumed that he wished to obtain an assurance that no jet aircraft were being exported to Russia or to any country in Eastern Europe. It is possible, however, that if the question and answer were taken out of their context, it might be inferred that no jet aircraft were being exported at all. This is not, of course, the case, and I am grateful to him for giving me this opportunity to clear up any misunderstanding that may have arisen.

88. Mr. Donner

asked the Minister of Supply whether his attention has been drawn to the recent severe bench testing in simulated combat conditions to which the Rolls Royce Derwent V jet aero engine has been subjected; and whether in view of the results obtained, he will give an unqualified assurance that this engine will not be sold to the U.S.S.R.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

Yes. Rolls Royce Derwent V engines were included in the 55 jet engines which were sold to the U.S.S.R. in fulfilment of contracts placed in August, 1946, and March, 1947. Further sales are not contemplated.