§ Mr. Adleyasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on the recent discussions he has had with United States trade officials 183W concerning restraints on the sale, import or use of the European Airbus by airlines flying within or to the United States of America.
§ Mr. BrittanIn the past few months, charges have been made in some quarters in the United States that European Governments have politically intervened to promote Airbus sales in competition with US manufactured aircraft. Doubts have also been expressed on whether Government launch aid towards development of the A320 is in accordance with our international obligations.
My right hon. and learned Friend has already informed the US Administration that Her Majesty's Government do not accept that it has in any way acted contrary to its international obligations in these matters. The Government will continue to resist such charges on behalf of British Aerospace and our other aerospace companies.