§ 65. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what recent consultations British Overseas Airways Corporation has had with him regarding approval for the purchase of new aircraft; and what sum of money is involved.
§ 69. Mr. P. Williamsasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he is now in a position to make any announcement about his approval for aircraft to be purchased by British Overseas Airways Corporation for delivery in the 1960s.
§ Mr. Watkinson:As I informed the House on 10th April last, B.O.A.C. have been conducting a searching examination into the possibilities. It has completed this and has informed me of its decision to place an order for 35 aircraft of a type to be known as the V.C.10 for delivery from 1963 onwards. The aircraft will be developed by Vickers Armstrongs (Aircraft) Ltd. as a private venture—no Government money being involved.
The Government have approved the necessary capital expenditure by B.O.A.C., amounting to about £68 million, including initial spares.