§ 100. Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Supply if he is yet able to make a further statement on the development of the twoengined helicopter.
§ Mr. MaudlingI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Erith and Crayford (Mr. Dodds) on 4th July, 1955. Development work continues on the Fairey Rotodyne and the Bristol 173, and its military variant. the 192.
In the case of the Bristol helicopter, our aim is to get a gas turbine version into service as soon as possible, and a production order was placed recently for the Gazelle engine. British European Airways are showing an interest in the 173 and my Department has arranged to lend them one of the prototypes for experimental flying later this year.