§ Mr. Wilkinsonasked the Minister of Aviation Supply whether he will make a statement on the future of the avionics consortium Avionica for the multi-role combat aircraft and on the system for allocation of contracts for the supply of avionic components for this aircraft.
§ Mr. David PriceAvionica was formed to co-ordinate the electronics equipment and systems for the multi-role combat aircraft. Its effort has recently been integrated with PANAVIA, the joint aircraft company. This will enable closer and more efficient management of the development of the aircraft together with its equipment. Equipment for the aircraft will be selected by agreement between governmental representatives and PANAVIA, after a process of competitive tendering has taken place.