§ 31. Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the latest orders 357W received for Concorde and the prospects for further sales.
§ Mr. Michael HeseltineNine firm orders have been placed for Concorde—five by British Airways and four by Air France. Iranair has signed a letter of intent to purchase two aircraft and expressed interest in a third and the Chinese national airline has signed a preliminary purchasing agreement for three aircraft. Discussions are continuing between the manufacturers and a number of other airlines.
§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if, having regard to the order for five Concordes from British Airways, and in view of the assistance given to British Caledonian Airways by allocation of routes, etc., he will seek discussions with British Caledonian with regard to its considerations for placing orders for that aircraft.
§ Mr. Michael HeseltineNo. 1 already have contact with the company from time to time about its future fleet requirements.