§ Mr. Wilkinson asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will make a statement on the funding by his Department of the definition of the Anglo-Italian EH 101 anti-submarine helicopter project; and when he expects this process to be completed.
§ Mr. Pattie: As Cmnd. 8288 indicates, a joint programme of work is in hand with Italy to explore the possibilities of collaborating on a new helicopter—designated the EH 101—which for the Royal Navy would be a Sea King replacement. The costs of this programme are being shared with Italy. It is not the practice to reveal the sums involved in such work. Results are expected in spring 1982.
§ Mr. Wilkinson asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether his Department has provided funding for the joint development by Rolls-Royce and Turbomeca of a new engine to power the projected Anglo-Italian EH 101 anti-submarine helicopter.
§ Mr. Pattie: The Ministry of Defence is not providing funding for the development of any new engine by the joint company Rolls-Royce-Turbomeca.