HL Deb 27 July 1977 vol 386 c1113WA
The Earl of KIMBERLEY

asked Her Majesty's Government:

  1. (1) what is the present state of the Concorde options to China, Iran, Japan and Singapore;
  2. (2) when the authorisation will be given to build more Concordes, in view of the fact that the long lead components already exist, and there are not enough aircraft to satisfy the present options; and
  3. (3) when British Airways will start a daily service to Washington, in line with Air France.

Lord WINTER BOTTOM

The previous options system has given way to a series of individual negotiations with airlines, and is no longer an indication of airline intentions to purchase Concorde on agreed terms. The question of authorising the production of further aircraft would only be considered if all 14 saleable aircraft had been sold and if further production and sales would not increase the overall loss to the two Governments. The frequency of British Airways services to Washington is a matter for the commercial judgment of the airline; they have announced that as from 21st August they will be operating six Concorde services per week to Washington.