§ Mr. McMasterasked the Minister of Aviation if he will authorise the production of a further series of Skyvan aircraft by Short Brothers and Harland in order that the company may exploit the world-wide interest in this transport aircraft and meet potential sales as fore cast by the company.
§ Mr. MulleyYes. The company has already been informed that, subject to the conclusion of an agreement with it, I am prepared to make available an interest free loan of £2.5 million to enable 233W the production of 50 Skyvans to proceed—30 more than was previously agreed. Payments will be made as necessary and a Supplementary Estimate for this purpose will be laid before the House. In anticipation of Parliamentary approval an advance will be made from the Civil Contingencies Fund.