§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, in reaching his decision regarding Government support for the A320 Airbus, what account he is taking of the consequences of the time taken on the competitive position of the proposed aircraft; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ButcherThe Government are fully aware of the importance attached to protecting the competitive position of the A320 and the projected spring 1988 entry into service date. The time scale for the Government's decision on launch aid for the project does not prejudice these objectives.