HC Deb 24 October 1967 vol 751 cc419-20W
47. Mr. Brooks

asked the Minister of Technology whether he will make a statement on the European airbus project.

Mr. Stonehouse

The Memorandum of Understanding, signed by Ministers in Bonn on 26th September, formally launched the first phase of the development of the airbus, extending to mid-1968. Continuation after that date will depend on certain conditions, including in particular a commitment by the three national airlines to buy this aircraft.

I believe that the European airbus offers us a chance of breaking into a most important and expanding market; I hope that it will also pave the way for further joint civil aircraft projects and help to lay the foundations for a European as opposed to a purely national approach to future requirements and to the development and production of future civil aircraft.