§ 116. Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Supply if he is yet in a position to state what progress is being made in the development of the two-engined helicopter; and when he estimates it will be ready for service.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydIn reply to a Question by the hon. Member for Dartford (Mr. Dodds) on 6th December, I informed the House with regard to the twin-engined Rotodyne.
Two prototypes of the twin-engined Bristol 173 helicopter with piston engines are undergoing development flying. Further prototypes are in course of construction and a production order for about 100 of the military version of this aircraft has been placed. I am not yet in a position to say when they will be ready for service. Further development of this 102W type of helicopter by the installation of twin turbine engines is planned; this should produce a machine capable of carrying up to 27 passengers in the civil version. The development of a suitable engine has already begun, but it is too early to forecast when such a machine might be ready for service.