§ 57. Mr. Woodburnasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that British aircraft development is approaching the point of producing helicopter machines capable of economic inter-city transport, and that urgent and adequate assistance now could give Great Britain the lead also in this development; and whether he is prepared to investigate the position with a view to Government support and encouragement.
8W
§ Mr. Aubrey JonesI am fully aware of the interesting position to which the right hon. Gentleman refers, because my Department has a large measure of responsibility for having created it. I have indicated to the companies concerned with the development of the most advanced aeroplane in this field, the Fairey Rotodyne, that the Government are prepared to continue to support and contribute to its further development. I am awaiting financial proposals from the companies which will no doubt reflect their commercial judgment of the opportunities that lie before the aeroplane.