HC Deb 16 February 1977 vol 926 c258W
Mr. James Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to order further aircraft for the Royal Air Force.

Dr. Gilbert

To maintain the Royal Air Force's front-line force into the 1980s we have today placed an order for a further 24 Harrier GR3 aircraft with Hawker Siddeley Aviation Limited. Other ways of enhancing the capability of our Harriers are under consideration.

Mr. Trotter

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether the number of operational aircraft in the Royal Air Force is likely to be further reduced as a result of the Government's latest defence cuts.

Mr. Wellbeloved

I have nothing to add to what my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence told the House on 12th January 1977.—[Vol. 923, c. 1455.]

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