§ Mr. Raffanasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether he will make a statement about Rolls-Royce's participation in collaborative aero-engine projects.
§ Mr. TebbitI have given approval to Rolls-Royce to participate with its US, Japanese, German and Italian partners in the launch of the V2500 aero-engine project. I will make a further announcement once launch-aid arrangements are finalized.
388WI have also given approval for a proposed collaboration between Rolls-Royce and General Electric (USA), to be announced by the companies today, whereby Rolls-Royce will participate in General Electric's CF6–80C engine programme, and General Electric will participate similarly in Rolls-Royce's RB211–535E4 programme.
I very much welcome these collaborations which anticipate will be commercially highly successful.