§ Mr. Easthamasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the time scale for the proposed VC10 tanker conversions; and what is the anticipated commencement date.
§ Mr. Norman LamontThe programme for converting the first batch of nine VC10s to tankers is nearing completion. We are considering a number of options for the conversion of further VC10 aircraft to the tanker role. No decision has yet been made and it is too soon to specify the programme time scale.
§ Mr. Hancockasked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) when the Super VC10s and VC10s were purchased for the Royal Air Force for conversion to tanker aircraft;
(2) what is the total cost of the conversion programme for the Royal Air Force VC10s and Super VC10s;
(3) what is the length of the conversion programme for the Royal Air Force VC10 tankers;
(4) when the programme for conversion of the VC10s and Super VC10s purchased by the Royal Air Force began.
§ Mr. Norman LamontI shall answer shortly.