§ Mr. J. H. Osbornasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what aircraft engines are being designed and manufactured at the present time which are now being promoted or supported from public funds; and if he will indicate the extent to which they have already been developed in each case and the amount expended.
§ Mr. David PriceI take this question to apply to civil engines. Only the Rolls-Royce RB211 is currently being supported from public funds. It is in an advanced stage of development and it should be ready for airline service in April, 1972.
Launching aid of £47 million was piad to Rolls-Royce Ltd. for the RB211 before the Receivership. The Government has so far committed about £24 million in indemnifying the Receiver for continuing work while negotiations are pursued about the future of the engine. This sum forms part of the estimate of £130 million for Government support for further development and production that was announced to the House on 10th May.