HC Deb 18 July 1975 vol 895 cc642-4W
Mr. Tebbit

asked the Secretary of State for Industry upon what evidence he bases his hopes that the public money expended on Concorde will be recouped.

Mr. Kaufman

The extent to which the Government's investment in the production of Concorde will be recovered of course depends on the number sold. My right hon. Friend the Member for Bristol, South-East (Mr. Benn) has made clear to the House that over the 16 aircraft currently authorised the production loss will be substantial; and that none of the expenditure on the development of Concorde will be recovered. This remains the position.

Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will list the present order book for Concorde, including options to purchase.

Mr. Kaufman

Five aircraft have been ordered by British Airways and four by Air France. Negotiations are continuing for the sale of two aircraft to Iraniair. Japan Air Lines has renewed its options on three Concordes until the end of 1975 but these do not involve payment of a deposit.

Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if it is his intention that the first two production Concorde aircraft shall be refurbished to airline standards after the present route-proving flights are completed, and then offered for sale.

Mr. Kaufman

It is the third and fourth production aircraft which are being used for the programme of endurance flying. These will be refurbished to airline standard after the completion of the programme. The first and second production aircraft would require extensive modification in addition to refurbishment before they could be accepted for normal airline service, and we have at present no plans to authorise such modifications.

Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what discussions he has had with his French opposite number about continuing the Concorde production line beyond the present 16 aircraft.

Mr. Kaufman

My right hon. Friend has not yet had the opportunity to discuss any aspect of the Concorde project with his French opposite number.