§ Mr. Lubbockasked the Minister of Aviation (1) what is the price in dollars to be paid for the Lockheed C130; how 65W many are to be ordered; and when he expects the aircraft to be delivered;
(2)if he will estimate the price in dollars of the Phantom aircraft; and how many are required by the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy, respectively.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsDetails of price, numbers to be supplied, and delivery times are subjects of current negotiation with the United States Government. While these negotiations are in progress I do not think it would be prudent to publish information of the kind which the hon. Member has requested. When negotiations have been completed, we hope to make as full a statement as is consistent with avoiding breaches of confidence with the United States Government and its contractors or of our own national security.
§ Mr. Lubbockasked the Minister of Aviation what discussions he has had with the British aircraft industry and the McDonnel Aircraft Company about building or assembling the Phantom aircraft under licence in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsWe intend to have British engines in the Phantom we buy. British ejection seats are already a standard fit. As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister indicated in the debate on 2nd February, we are examining the possibility of having British firms supply materials, components, subassemblies and further items of equipment, together with the possibility of assembly in this country. We aim to go as far as we reasonably can in this direction, but with strict regard to cost and time considerations. Discussions have already started with some British firms likely to be concerned.