§ Mr. Martenasked the Minister of Technology if he will estimate the effect on the operating costs of the Concord of banning supersonic flight over land.
§ Mr. StonehouseConcord is designed to operate most economically at supersonic speeds just above Mach 2, and in so far as it is obliged to fly subsonically, there is bound to be some economic penalty.
§ Mr. Whitakerasked the Minister of Technology whether he is satisfied that the Concord will fulfil his criterion that every civil aircraft project must be likely to pay for itself; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. BennThis depends on the number of aircraft sold and the size of development levy paid. All projects of this kind include financial risks.