§ Mr. Colvinasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is his policy towards the proposal for the P110 single seat, air superiority and ground attack fighter being made by a consortium of British Aerospace, Rolls-Royce, Dowty, Ferranti, Lucas Aerospace, Marconi Avionics and Smiths Industries.
§ Mr. PattieAs a Tornado-related development the private venture P110 proposal will be considered, as well as advanced VSTOL, in our studies on future combat aircraft. As indicated in Cmnd. 8288 we shall not be able to afford any direct and early replacement for the RAF's Jaguar force, but we are continuing work and discussion with potential partners on future combat aircraft and shall pay particular regard to collaborative opportunities and to export markets as well as to the long term capability of the British aircraft industry.
My right hon. Friend recognises the importance which industry attaches to the P110 and the need to sell it overseas if it is to be viable. We are therefore continuing to help BAe seek customers willing to contribute to its development.