§ Mr. Masonasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when the first Concorde aircraft is due to enter commercial service; what will then be the estimated total cost of research, development and production; what further expenditure is estimated on the proposed improvements of redesigned wings, bigger fuel tanks and other changes in its aerodynamics; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael HeseltineI understand that British Airways are planning to start Concorde services in the second half of 1975. The current development estimate at January 1973 prices is £1,065 million. Expenditure on production will depend upon the numbers of aircraft under manufacture and orders.
The manufacturers' studies on possible improvements have only just been submitted. I cannot speculate about their costs until they have been fully examined, and considered by my French colleague and myself.