§ 78. Sir C. Osborneasked the Minister of Aviation why metal fatigue has developed in the Valiants so much more quickly than in civil aircraft; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsThe different roles in which aircraft are employed and the consequent variations in design, make impossible any direct comparison between the fatigue life of a particular military aircraft and other military and civil types.
The important problem of metal fatigue is a subject of continuing study by all concerned in the development of aircraft. The main factors affecting the decision to withdraw the Valiant from service were clearly stated by the Secretary of State for Defence on 1st February. I do not feel that I can usefully add to this.