HC Deb 17 October 1973 vol 861 cc209-10W
Mr. Warren

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the reasons for the reversal of the policy of Her Majesty's Government towards European rocket launcher development, in view of his earlier statements which stressed the ready availability of cheap launch vehicles from the United States.

Mr. Michael Heseltine

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to the hon. Member for West Lothian (Mr. Dalyell) on 16th October 1973.

Mr. Warren

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what will be the cost to the United Kingdom taxpayer of participation in the new European launcher development programme.

Mr. Onslow

The United Kingdom is not a participant in the new European launcher programme. We have, however, agreed to contribute towards the technology and some hardware, precise definition of which is now in hand. The maximum sum is £4.7 million including provision for over-run. The basic estimate is £3.9 million.