HC Deb 10 February 1976 vol 905 cc103-4W
5. Miss Richardson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence from what bases it is intended to deploy the strike versions of MRCA; in what theatres it is intended to operate them; and for what precise purposes.

Mr. John

The strike/attack/reconnaissance variant of the MRCA will operate from Royal Air Force bases in the United Kingdom and in Germany. The operational areas will be Allied Command Europe and the Eastern Atlantic; and it will carry out all-weather operations by day and by night.

22. Mr. Cope

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is contemplating any cut back in United Kingdom participation in the MRCA project.

Mr. William Rodgers

No.

34. Mr. Corbett

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the total current estimate of production orders for the MRCA; what orders are expected to be placed in the first, second and third years; when will the first production orders be placed; and what is the total annual cost of the estimated current programme.

Mr. William Rodgers

The total planned requirement for the three partner nations remains at 807 aircraft. Production arrangements are under discussion and the annual cost will depend on the outcome. We expect to be ready in the first half of this year to take a decision with our partners on the launching of full production.

37. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when the final decisions about entering into production of the MRCA are to be taken.

Mr. William Rodgers

We expect to be ready to take a decision with our partners in the first half of this year.