HC Deb 01 August 1951 vol 491 cc201-2W
62. Mr. Lucas

asked the Secretary of State for Air why the Vampire, fitted with dual control, is to be classified as an intermediate trainer; what plans have been made to replace conventional training aircraft, such as the Harvard and the Balliol, with those of jet-powered, propellerless design; and when such replacements are likely to become available.

Mr. Crawley

The dual controlled Vampire is not officially classified as intermediate," but will be used in the advance stage of training to supplement the Meteor VII. There is no present proposal for replacing the Balliol, which has only recently been introduced, in the preceding stage of training.

My right hon. and learned Friend has asked me to express his regret that his reply of 11th July to the hon. Member should have suggested that the Vampire could be regarded as an intermediate jet training aircraft.