HC Deb 03 December 1986 vol 106 c665W
Mr. Cash

asked the Secretary of State for Defence to what extent his Department is lending its support to the promotion of the Nimrod system to France and other interested nations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

We have assisted GEC Avionics Ltd. in its promotion of the Nimrod mission system avionics to overseas countries, for example through the loan of aircraft for demonstrations, and will continue to do so to the maximum extent possible.

Mr. Cash

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if the offset work offered by Boeing in its airborne early warning bid is new work to British industry rather than work already placed in the United Kingdom, or work which would be open to tender of British industry regardless of the purchase of airborne warning and control system; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

In the event of a decision to buy the Boeing airborne warning and control system we shall monitor the Boeing company's proposals for meeting its offset commitment very carefully, with due regard to these factors.