§ Mr. Speedasked the Secretary of State for Defence how many Sea Harriers have been ordered in 1982; on what dates; and when delivery is expected.
§ Mr. Pattie:Notification of our intention to purchase 14 Sea Harriers, subject to the agreement of satisfactory price and terms, was given to the contractors concerned in July and August. Quotations have now been received and I hope that price negotiations will be completed before the end of this year. Deliveries of the aircraft are expected to begin in early 1985 and to be completed by mid-1986.