§ Mr. Websterasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will give the number of parachute jumps performed on an X-type parachute in each of the last three years, respectively, and the number of abnormalities, analysed between thrown lines, blown peripheries and premature openings.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe number for the three years from 1st July, 1963, were 39,254, 32,272 and 36,921 respectively. These figures exclude jumps made outside Europe for which statistics are not readily available. These are few but will be collated if the hon. Member so requests. No statistical record of the number of such "abnormalities" is now kept. Exceptional incidents are investigated on the spot.
§ Mr. Websterasked the Secretary of State for Defence why the X-type parachute was withdrawn from service.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe X-type parachute is still in service. The PX parachute is being introduced for two principle reasons. First, it has a larger canopy, which meets the Army requirement for a slower rate of descent, thereby reducing the number of minor injuries sustained on landing. Secondly, it caters for the higher speeds of newer type aircraft.