§ 30. Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is satisfied that 139W strategic materials for the MRCA are obtained from secure sources.
§ Dr. GilbertYes. Any interruption in supplies from present sources could be met from alternative sources.
§ 31. Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Secretary of State for Defence if, before finally committing several billion pounds to the purchase of 385 MRCA and its Air Defence Variant, he will require further tests to ensure that they can fly at Mach 2+ as described as their capability in 1972; what is the highest speed so far achieved and expected by both forms of aircraft; and what is the thrust level now being used in order to attempt to overcome intake drag.
§ Dr. GilbertFull production of the MRCA was authorised in July. I am satisfied that the aircraft will meet the RAF's performance requirements.